Use of oligomers of lactic acid in the treatment of gynaecological disorders

ABSTRACT

Use of the one or more oligomers of lactic acid with the following formula (I) wherein n is an integer from 2 to 25 such as, e.g., from 2 to 20, from 3 to 25, from 3 to 20, from 2 to 15, from 3 to 15, from 2 to 10, from 3 to 10, from 4 to 10, or from 4 to 9 or a lactic acid oligomeric product for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of a disease or condition that benefit of an acidic environment especially a gynaecological infection such as a bacterial infection, such as bacterial vaginosis, unspecific colpitis, senile colpitis, cervicitis, and urethritis, a fungal infection, such as candidosis ( Candida albicans ), cryptococcosis, actinomycosis, or a viral infection, such as Human Immunodefiency Virus (HIV), Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention describes use of oligomers of lactic acid (OMLA)for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of gynaecological infections, suchas microbial or viral infections, notably bacterial vaginosis. Moreover,the oligomeric products of the invention can be used in the treatment orprophylaxis of any disease or condition where an acid pH below about 4.0or 4.5 is desired or as excipients releasing an acid during a prolongedperiod of time in order to maintain a suitably low pH in theenvironment. The invention also relates to novel oligomers of lacticacid as well as to novel oligomeric products containing specificmixtures of specific lactic acid oligomers. Specifically, the presentinvention relates to oligomers of lactic acid in the range from dimer tododecamer and the use thereof. The oligomers are normally presented as aformulation e.g. in the form of a device or a kit.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Gynaecological or reproductive tract infections generally refer to threedifferent types of infection which affect the reproductive tract.Endogenous infections include bacterial vaginosis and candidosis, whichresult from an overgrowth of organisms which are normally present in thevagina. The endogenous infections represent the most common form oflower gynaecological tract infections (LGTIs) worldwide, and they can beeasily treated. However they commonly reappear, which is a major medicalproblem. latrogenic infections represent a second group which occur whenthe infectious agent (a bacterium or other micro-organism) is introducedinto the reproductive tract through various routes such as menstrualregulation, induced abortion, IUD insertion or during parturition.Finally. sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are caused bymicroorganisms such as viruses, bacteria, or parasitic microorganismsthat are transmitted through sexual activity with an infected partner.Among the STIs there are several serious diseases such as HIV, chlamydiatrachomatis, condyloma accuminata, syphilis and Neisseria gonorrhea.STIs can affect both men and women, but a transmission from mothers tochildren during pregnancy and childbirth may also occur.

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most frequent endogenous infection andalso the most common medical condition of the female genital tract. BVis linked to increased complications in pregnancy, and may be involvedin the pathogenesis of pelvic inflammatory disease and women's risk ofacquiring HIV. Still many questions remain about its aetiology, whichcomplicates the management of recurrent infections.

BV is an overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria and a lack of normalLactobacilli flora, which results in an imbalance of normal vaginalflora. During pregnancy BV is associated with poor perinatal outcome anda cause of preterm birth. Identification and treatment of BV may reducethe risk of such consequences. A range of therapeutic options has beentested in order to manage or prevent recurrences of BV.

It is not yet known whether frequent episodes of BV are the result ofre-infection or relapse. The association of BV with sexual behavioursuggests that BV is sexually transmitted and that additional episodesmay be due to re-infection. However, evidence do not support the theoryof sexual transmission and re-infection and several studies evaluatingrisk factors for repeated episodes of BV suggests it is due to relapse.Women developing early recurrence tend to complain of abnormal dischargeat the end of therapy. Moreover, asymptomatic women who considerthemselves cured after treatment, continued to have abnormal vaginalflora. Furthermore, the more severe the abnormality the earlier isusually the recurrence.

The value of bacteriotherapy, using harmless bacteria to displacepathogenic organisms remain unresolved.

Psychosexual symptoms with lack of libido and anxiety about infectionmay be reported by some women as a consequence of recurrent episodes ofbacterial vaginosis and associated malodour. However, concurrenttreatment of the male partner does not reduce the rate of BV relapse.However, condom use with male sexual partners may help to reduce therisk of relapse of bacterial vaginosis. Hormonal contraception use doesnot increase the incidence of bacterial vaginosis, while women with anintrauterine contraceptive device or system in situ may have anincreased risk of BV.

Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is a common presenting symptom, which may bephysiological or pathological. While BV remains one of the most commondiagnoses in women attending genitourinary medicine clinics,vulvovaginal candidiasis is another common infective cause of vaginaldischarge that affects about 75% of women at some time during theirreproductive life. Approximately 50% of cases of bacterial vaginosis areasymptomatic and the true prevalence of this condition in the communityis uncertain. Lactobacilli colonising the vaginal epithelium may have arole in defence against infection. Normal vaginal flora (lactobacilli)maintains the vaginal pH between 3.8 and 4.4. The quality and quantityof vaginal discharge may be altered in the same woman over time. Thereis a wide variation in vaginal discharge and each woman has her ownsense of normality and what is acceptable or excessive.

The main problem of the pathogenic vaginal discharge is the malodour.This odour has the characteristics of a foul fishy smell which ischaracteristic for bacterial vaginosis and caused by amines, mainlytrimethylamine. Other clinical manifestations may be excessive dischargeand a sense of unfreshness.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

As appears from the above there is a need for developing formulationsthat are suitable for use in management of gynaecological infections,notably bacterial vaginosis, and that enable a less frequentadministration compared to the treatment regimens known today thatrequires daily or more than daily administration.

To this end, the present inventors have found that oligomers of lacticacids are suitable for use. On the one hand the oligomers release lacticacid once they are contacted with an aqueous medium and on the otherhand the oligomers serve as a lactic acid depot, i.e. not all lacticacid is released immediately; the release of lactic acid is dependent onthe oligomer in question.

In a main aspect, the present invention provides the use of one or moreoligomers of lactic acid for the preparation of a formulation for theprophylaxis and/or treatment of gynaecological infections.

In other aspects the one or more oligomers of lactic acid may be used inthe treatment or prophylaxis of any conditions which benefit from a lowpH e.g. in the diseased environment. Thus, the OMLA with or withoutcombination with lactate may be used in the treatment of prophylaxis fordiseases or disorders affecting the skin or mucosa. A preparationcontaining OMLA with or without combination with lactate may also beused as an excipient for various topical and mucosal preparations formedical, dental or veterinary use. Further to that, OMLA with or withoutcombination with lactate may be used as an ingredient in productsintended for cosmetic or cosmeceutical use.

Examples of oral mucosal application where suitable preparations is ofmedical value is e.g., aphte (aphtous stomatitis), or other types oforal mucosal lesions due to bacterial infections, viral infections,fungal infections, or other medical reasons like e.g. leucoplacia or“Burning Mouth Syndrome”. In addition, OMLA with or without combinationwith lactate may also be used in saliva replacement treatments orpreparations.

Rectal preparations of OMLA with or without combination with lactate maybe used in diseases or disorders such as haemorroids, anal fissures,pruritus ani or proctitis.

In the field of dermatology, there are several areas where skinpreparations or applications of OMLA with or without combination withlactate added to known registered or applicable pharmaceutical agents oringredients and may be of beneficial use. Examples of such skin diseasesor disorders are; wounds, exema, atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne,rosacea, urticaria, pruritus, light dermatosis, hyperhidrosis, alopecia,as well as bacterial infections, viral infections, fungal infections,and ectoparasites.

In dental practice, OMLA with or without combination with lactate may beused as an ingredient or excipient in dental cream as well as acombination treatment or an ingredient or excipient for treatments orprophylaxis of caries and/or parodontitis and or halitosis

An additional use of OMLA with or without combination with lactate maybe in gastroenterology, where beneficial effects may be seen in aciddisorders such as achylia.

In another main aspect, the present invention relates to novel oligomersof lactic acids. Accordingly, the present invention provides an oligomerof lactic acid with the following formula I

wherein n is an integer from 2 to 25 such as, e.g., from 2 to 20, from 3to 25, from 3 to 20, from 2 to 15, from 3 to 15, from 2 to 10, from 3 to10, from 4 to 10, or from 4 to 9. In specific embodiments, n may behigher dependent on the application and the time period for releasinglactic acid. Accordingly, in those cases where a very long release timeof lactic acid is desired, n may be up to 50 such as, e.g. from 20 to50, from 20 to 30, from 30 to 40 or from 40 to 50 (the lower rangegiving a release period that is lower than the higher range). The noveloligomers of lactic acids in substantial pure form (i.e. the specificoligomer is present in a concentration of 90% or more) do not encompassthe tetramer of lactic acid manufactured as described in the following:To a solution of lactic acid tetramer tert-butyl ester (0.6982 g)(1.9268 mmol) in methylene chloride (25 ml) was dropped a mixed solutionof trifluoroacetic acid (2.5 ml) and methylene chloride (2.5 ml),followed by stirring at room temperature for 1 hour after the end ofdropping; a saturated sodium hydrogen carbonate solution (30 ml) wasadded to adjust the pH of water layer to pH 8, and then a saturatedammonium chloride (50 ml) was added thereto to adjust the pH of waterlayer to pH 6; the resultant was extracted three times with diethylether (100 ml); the extraction solution contained almost all impuritiesand a small amount of the substance of interest; to the remaining waterlayer was dropped 1N hydrochloric acid (5 ml) cooled at 0° C., so as toadjust the pH of water layer to pH 2-3; the layer was extracted threetimes with methylene chloride (150 ml); at this time, the pH changed,and therefore 1N hydrochloric acid cooled at 0° C. was used to keep thepH of the water layer at pH 2-3; the resultant was dried over anhydrousmagnesium sulphate day and night, concentrated, and isolated by columnchromatography (developing solvent: hexane:diethyl ether=1:4) to obtainlactic acid tetramer (0.2047 g) (yield:34.7%) as a colourless oil.

As mentioned above, the present invention relates to novel oligomers oflactic acid. Such compounds are normally difficult to obtain as 100%pure compounds, but will normally contain a mixture of the main oligomertogether with lactic acid oligomers with different degrees ofoligomerization dependent on the synthesis conditions. Thus, in thepresent context, the term “novel oligomer of lactic acid” is intended todenote an oligomer with a specific degree of oligomerization, whereinthe concentration of this specific oligomer is at least about 90% w/w.However, the present invention also relates to novel oligomeric productscontaining a mixture of lactic acid oligomers. Such mixtures arenormally obtained directly from the synthesis process and, as seen fromthe Examples herein, contain one or more main oligomers together with anumber of oligomers of smaller and larger size. In the oligomericproducts obtained without any purification step to remove oligomers ofhigher or lower molecular weight than the main product, the mainoligomers are normally present in a concentration of at least about 4%w/w. As can be seen from the Examples herein, the higher the meanmolecular weight is, the wider is the molecular weight distribution ofthe product obtained. Thus, in those cases, where the weight averagemolecular weight is from about 400 to about 700, then the mainoligomer(s) individually is/are present in a concentration of at leastabout 10% w/w (range 10-25%), whereas when the weight average molecularweight of the product increase to from about 700 to about 1,000 then themain oligomer(s) individually is/are present in a concentration of atleast about 7% w/w (range 7-12%), and when the weight average molecularweight increase to from about 1,000 to about 1,700 then the mainoligomer(s) individually is/are present in a concentration of at leastabout 4.4% w/w (range 4.4-7).

Moreover, as seen from the examples herein, in those cases where theweight average molecular weight is from about 400 to about 700, theconcentration of the main oligomers (HL₂-HL₆ or HL₃-HL₆where HL₂ is thedimer, HL₃ is the trimer etc.) is at least about 30% (in the specificexamples the range is form about 30 to about 65%). For oligomericproducts in the range of from about 700 to about 1,000, theconcentration of the main oligomers (HL₂-HL₈ or HL₃-HL₇) is at leastabout 35% (in the specific examples the range is from about 35 to about65%).

As mentioned above, a variety of oligomeric products with differentmixtures of individual oligomers can be obtained. The selection of aspecific oligomeric product depends on its intended use. As demonstratedin the examples herein, the release of lactic acid from the oligomericproducts depends on the oligomerization of lactic acid. Thus, anoligomeric product having a weight average molecular weight in the lowerend tends to release lactic acid faster than an oligomeric producthaving a higher molecular weight. Accordingly, if a fast onset of actionis required, then the choice is an oligomeric product having a weightaverage molecular weight of corresponding to a range of HL₃-HL₆.Moreover, from the examples herein it is seen that such composition canlead to an effect for at least about 8 hours (based on in vitroexperiments, see FIG. 1, a low pH can be maintained for 1-2 days). If amore prolonged release of lactic acid is desired, an oligomeric productwith a higher weight average molecular weight is chosen such as, e.g.,an oligomeric product having a weight average molecular weightcorresponding to a range of HL₆-HL₁₂ or HL₆-HL₁₀ (medium release—invitro duration for at least about 48 hours) or HL₁₀-HL₂₅ for even slowerrelease. As seen from the examples herein, an advantage by usingoligomeric products that have a certain molecular weight distribution isthat it is possible to obtain both a fast onset of action (due to thecontent of small oligomers) and a more sustained action (due to thecontent of oligomers of higher molecular weight).

Accordingly, in specific embodiments the present invention relates tooligomeric products having the following compositions:

i) An oligomeric product, wherein the total concentration of HL₂-HL₅ isat least about 50% w/w such as at least about 60% w/w. In a preferredembodiment, the concentration is from about 60% w/w to about 70% w/w andthe average weight molecular weight is from about 350 to about 500. Dueto the content of relatively small oligomers in relatively highconcentration such a product has a fast onset of action and a relativelyshort duration of action (8-12 hours or more, but likely not more than acouple of days)

ii) An oligomeric product, wherein the total concentration of HL₂-HL₅ isat least about 40% w/w. In a preferred embodiment, the concentration isfrom about 40% w/w to about 50% w/w and the average weight molecularweight is from about 450 to about 600. Due to the content of relativelysmall oligomers such a product has a fast onset of action and due to itscontent of higher oligomers it has short-medium duration of action (1-2days or more, but likely not more than 4-6 days).

iii) An oligomeric product, wherein the total concentration of HL₂-HL₅is at least about 30% w/w. In a preferred embodiment, the concentrationis from about 30% w/w to about 40% w/w and the average weight molecularweight is from about 500 to about 750. Due to the content of relativelysmall oligomers such a product has a fast onset of action and due to itscontent of higher oligomers it has medium duration of action (2 days ormore, but likely not more than 1 week).

iv) An oligomeric product, wherein the total concentration of HL₃-HL₈ isat least about 35% w/w. In a preferred embodiment, the concentration isfrom about 35% w/w to about 65% w/w and the average 700 to about 1,000.Due to the content of relatively small oligomers (although in a lowerconcentration than in the products i)-iii) above, such a product isexpected to have a certain immediate action and due to its content ofhigher oligomers it has a longer duration of action (more than 2 days).

The oligomeric products i)-iv) mentioned above all have a certainmolecular weight distribution in order to enable both a fast onset ofaction (i.e. within the first hours after application) and a moreprolonged action. Accordingly, the polydispersity index of such products(discussed below) is normally from about 1.2 to about 1.5 of from about1.3 to about 1.4.

Other specific embodiments are mentioned in the Examples herein.

A more narrow molecular weight distribution can be obtained bysubjecting the oligomeric products obtained to a purification processsuch as, e.g. gel filtration.

Accordingly, the present invention also relates to such products, wherethe main oligomer is present in a concentration of 15% w/w or more suchas, e.g., 20% w/w or more, 25% w/w or more or wherein the concentrationof the main oligomers (i.e. the total concentration of the individualmain oligomers) is 45% w/w or more such as, e.g., 60% w/w or more or 75%w/w or more. Such relatively pure oligomeric products may also be usedin combination to obtain a desired release of lactic acid as discussedabove.weight molecular weight is from about 700 to about 1,000. Due tothe content of relatively small oligomers (although in a lowerconcentration than in the products i)-iii) above, such a product isexpected to have a certain imidiate action and due to its content ofhigher oligomers it has a longer duration of action (more than 2 days).

The oligomeric products i)-iv) mentioned above all have a certainmolecular weight distribution in order to enable both a fast onset ofaction (i.e. within the first hours after application) and a moreprolonged action. Accordingly, the polydispersity index of such products(discussed below) is normally from about 1.2 to about 1.5 of from about1.3 to about 1.4.

Other specific embodiments are mentioned in the Examples herein.

A more narrow molecular weight distribution can be obtained bysubjecting the oligomeric products obtained to a purification processsuch as, e.g. gel filtration. Accordingly, the present invention alsorelates to such products, where the main oligomer is present in aconcentration of 15% w/w or more such as, e.g., 20% w/w or more, 25% w/wor more or wherein the concentration of the main oligomers (i.e. thetotal concentration of the individual main oligomers) is 45% w/w or moresuch as, e.g., 60% w/w or more or 75% w/w or more. Such relatively pureoligomeric products may also be used in combination to obtain a desiredrelease of lactic acid as discussed above.

In a further main aspect, the present invention relates to a formulationcomprising one or more oligomers of lactic acid (notably a noveloligomeric product) and one or more pharmaceutically acceptableexcipients.

In a further main aspect, the present invention relates to a device forthe delivery of a therapeutically effective amount of a formulation forthe prophylaxis and/or treatment of a gynaecological infection.

In a further main aspect, the present invention relates to a kit for theprophylaxis and/or treatment of gynaecological infections, whichcomprises at least a first and a second component, wherein the firstcomponent comprises a formulation and the second component comprisesinstructions for use of the formulation.

In a further main aspect, the present invention relates to a package orcontainer for storage of a kit.

In yet another main aspect, the present invention relates to a methodfor the prophylaxis and/or treatment of a gynaecological infection, themethod comprising administering to a subject in need thereof aneffective dose of one or more oligomers of lactic acid, optionally inform of a formulation.

In one aspect, the invention provides a formulation of one or moreoligomers of lactic acid, which has acidifying properties over aprolonged period of time.

Bacterial Vaginosis; its Background and Epidemiology

BV is characterised by a malodorous vaginal discharge, a vaginal pH ofmore than 4.5, a positive amine test, and a thin homogeneous whitefluor, and the presence of clue cells microscopically and on occasionvaginal burning or itching.

The vaginal flora is altered from the normal lactobacilli (LB) dominantto flora with reduced numbers of LB and an overgrowth of Gardnerellavaginalis, Mycoplasma hominis, and anaerobic bacteria such asstreptococci, Prevotella spp, and Mobiluncus spp.

Bacterial vaginosis is commonly diagnosed by Amsel's criteria if 3 ofthe following 4 criteria are present: 1; a vaginal pH higher then 4.5,2; the presence of clue (vaginal epithelial) cells in the vaginal fluid,3; a thin grey or white homogenous discharge, 4; or a positive KOH“whiff” test (release of fishy odour upon the addition of 10% potassiumhydroxide to the vaginal fluid)

Some predisposing factors have been shown to increase the risk of BV,such as younger age, black ethnicity, douching, smoking, and the IUDcontraception. Several reports have linked BV with sexual behaviour, arecent change of sexual partner, as well as multiple partners.

The invention will now be further described and illustrated by referenceto the following examples, which have been carefully selected in orderto encompass the invention. Accordingly, they should not be construed aslimiting the invention in any way.

Definitions

In relation to the substance per se, the terms “oligomer of lactic acid”and “OMLA” are used as synonyms and are intended to mean one or moreoligomers of lactic acid with formula I, wherein n is an integer from 2to 20 such as, e.g., from 3 to 20, from 2 to 15, from 3 to 15, from 2 to10, from 3 to 10, from 4 to 10, or from 4 to 9. The novel oligomers oflactic acids does not encompass a tetramer of lactic acid manufacturedas described in the following: To a solution of lactic acid tetramertert-butyl ester (0.6982 g) (1.9268 mmol) in methylene chloride (25 ml)was dropped a mixed solution of trifluoroacetic acid (2.5 ml) andmethylene chloride (2.5 ml), followed by stirring at room temperaturefor 1 hour after the end of dropping; a saturated sodium hydrogencarbonate solution (30 ml) was added to adjust the pH of water layer topH 8, and then a saturated ammonium chloride (50 ml) was added theretoto adjust the pH of water layer to pH 6; the resultant was extractedthree times with diethyl ether (100 ml); the extraction solutioncontained almost all impurities and a small amount of the substance ofinterest; to the remaining water layer was dropped 1N hydrochloric acid(5 ml) cooled at 0° C., so as to adjust the pH of water layer to pH 2-3;the layer was extracted three times with methylene chloride (150 ml); atthis time, the pH changed, and therefore 1N hydrochloric acid cooled at0° C. was used to keep the pH of the water layer at pH 2-3; theresultant was dried over anhydrous magnesium sulphate day and night,concentrated, and isolated by column chromatography (developing solvent:hexane:diethyl ether=1:4) to obtain lactic acid tetramer (0.2047 g)(yield:34.7%) as a colourless oil.

However, in relation to use of oligomers of lactic acid it is envisagedthat small structural variations of the oligomers do not affect theirability to release lactic acid. Accordingly, derivatives of theoligomers, wherein the terminal carboxylic acid and/or hydroxyl grouphas been derivatized e.g. to an ester, an amide, a thio ester (for thecarboxylic acid) or an ether (for the hydroxyl group) are envisaged tobe suitable for use in accordance with the invention. Accordingly,derivatives of oligomers of lactic acid with the following formula II

wherein n is as defined herein before for formula (I) and R is H,R¹R²N—, R¹O—, or R¹S—, and R¹, R² and R³ are the same or different andselected from H, C₁-C₆ alkyl including methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl,butyl, isobutyl, tert. butyl, pentyl, hexyl, or aryl including benzyl,and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, and

X is H or alkyl including methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl,isobutyl, tert. butyl, pentyl, hexyl, or acyl, —OCR⁴, wherein R⁴ isselected from H, C₁-C₆ alkyl including methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl,butyl, isobutyl, tert. butyl, pentyl, hexyl, or aryl including benzyl,and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, provided that R is not OHwhen X is H, may also be used in combination or as substitution for thelactic acid oligomers of formula (I), or in oligomeric lactic acidproducts as described herein.

By the term “antimicrobial” is intended to mean an effect that destroysor inhibits the growth of microbes, such as bacteria (e.g. Group BStreptococcus), fungi, viruses, or parasites. By the term“antibacterial” is intended to mean an effect that destroys or inhibitsthe growth of bacteria. By the term “antifungal” is intended to mean aneffect that destroys or inhibits the growth of fungi. By the term“antiviral” is intended to mean an effect that destroys or inhibits theability of a virus to replicate and, hence, inhibits its capability tomultiply, reproduce or grow.

By the term “weight average molecular weight” or “M_(w)” is intended tobe a description of the molecular weight of a polymer. The weightaverage molecular weight is calculated as: M_(w)=Σ_(i)(N_(i)M_(i)²)/Σ_(i)(N_(i)M_(i)) wherein N_(i) is the number of molecules ofmolecular weight M_(i). Intuitively, if the weight average molecularweight is w, and you pick a random monomer, then the polymer it belongsto will have a weight of w on average. The weight average molecularweight can be determined by e.g. mass spectrometry, NMR spectroscopy,light scattering, small angle neutron scattering (SANS), X-rayscattering, and sedimentation velocity.

By the term “number average molecular weight” or “M_(n)” is intendedmean a determination of the molecular weight of a polymer. The numberaverage molecular weight is the common, mean, average of the molecularweights of the individual polymers. It is determined by measuring themolecular weight of n polymer molecules, summing the weights, anddividing by n: M_(n)=Σ_(i)(N_(i)M_(i))/Σ_(i)(N_(i)) wherein N_(i) is thenumber of molecules of molecular weight M_(i). The number averagemolecular weight of a polymer can be determined by e.g. massspectrometry, NMR spectroscopy, vapor pressure osmometry, end-grouptitration, and colligative properties.

By the term “polydispersity index” is intended to mean a measure of thedistribution of molecular weights in a polymer sample, which isdetermined as the ratio of the weight average molecular weight to thenumber average molecular weight of a polymer.

By the term “oligomeric product” is intended to mean a productcontaining two or more oligomers of lactic acid, i.e. a mixture ofoligomers with different degrees of oligomerization. As appears from thedescription and the examples herein, oligomeric products are normallyobtained by use of the synthesis method and the polydispersity index isused as a measure for how broad or narrow the molecular weightdistribution is. As explained herein, it is normally an advantage tohave oligomers of different molecular weights in the product as it e.g.can give rise to a fast release of lactic acid from the low molecularweight oligomers and a more sustained and prolonged release from thehigher molecular weight polymers. In this manner it is possible todesign an oligomeric product with a desired release profile.

By the term “formulation” is intended to mean a composition comprisingone or more OMLAs together with one or more pharmaceutically acceptableexcipients or such which can be accepted for topical use to the skin ormucosa. A formulation according to the invention may be presented in anysuitable form, notably for administration to the vagina includingvaginal administration. The term “formulation” is also used for thepreparation which does not contain any added excipients, besides OMLA,but is prepared in a way to conform requirements for application to themucosa.

By the term “antiadhesion agent” is intended to mean any agent that willreduce the adhesion properties of gynaecological pathogenic microbialorganisms or virus and in particular agents that will cause suchorganism or virus to disadhere.

By the term “adhesiveness” is intended to mean the effect that providesor promotes adhesion or “stickiness” to a surface, such as the mucosa.For the adhesion to the mucosa the term “mucoadhesiveness” can be alsoused.

By the term “vagitorium” is intended to mean a drug, which is introducedto the vagina where the active ingredients are released and absorbed andwill act on the mucosa; and the term “pessary” is used as a synonymhereof.

Oligomers of Lactic Acid

In one embodiment relating to oligomers of lactic acid per se, theinvention comprises one or more oligomers of lactic acid with formula I,wherein n is an integer as defined herein in connection with formula(I). The novel oligomers of lactic acids in pure form does not encompassa tetramer of lactic acid manufactured as described in the following: Toa solution of lactic acid tetramer tert-butyl ester (0.6982 g) (1.9268mmol) in methylene chloride (25 ml) was dropped a mixed solution oftrifluoroacetic acid (2.5 ml) and methylene chloride (2.5 ml), followedby stirring at room temperature for 1 hour after the end of dropping; asaturated sodium hydrogen carbonate solution (30 ml) was added to adjustthe pH of water layer to pH 8, and then a saturated ammonium chloride(50 ml) was added thereto to adjust the pH of water layer to pH 6; theresultant was extracted three times with diethyl ether (100 ml); theextraction solution contained almost all impurities and a small amountof the substance of interest; to the remaining water layer was dropped1N hydrochloric acid (5 ml) cooled at 0° C., so as to adjust the pH ofwater layer to pH 2-3; the layer was extracted three times withmethylene chloride (150 ml); at this time, the pH changed, and therefore1N hydrochloric acid cooled at 0° C. was used to keep the pH of thewater layer at pH 2-3; the resultant was dried over anhydrous magnesiumsulphate day and night, concentrated, and isolated by columnchromatography (developing solvent: hexane:diethyl ether=1:4) to obtainlactic acid tetramer (0.2047 g) (yield:34.7%) as a colourless oil.

In one embodiment relating to the use of oligomers of lactic acid, theinvention comprises one or more derivatives of oligomers of lactic acidhas the above-mentioned formula II, wherein n, R and X are as definedbefore

Oligomers of lactic acid are chains of lactic acids coupled to eachother by ester links between the carboxylic acid moiety in one with thesecondary alcohol function in another. The number of monomers joined isbetween 2 and typically 20. The formulation for prophylaxis and/ortreatment of bacterial vaginosis may also include the use of acarboxylic acid such as benzoic acid or acetic acid, dicarboxylic acidssuch as malonic acid, compounds having both a carboxylic acid and ahydroxyl group (e.g. salicylic acid), carbonates, sulphates or variantin which the end group is formula II is R, wherein R is R¹R²N, R¹O—, orR¹S—, R¹, R² and R³ are the same or different and selected from H, C1-C6alkyl including methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, tert.butyl, pentyl, hexyl, or aryl including benzyl, as well aspharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.

The compounds prepared by the method of the present invention includeall combinations of optical isomers of the oligomers of lactic acidcompounds according to the present invention (e.g., R and S enantiomers,D- and L-forms), as well as racemic, diastereomeric, meso and othermixtures of such isomers.

In addition, the oligomers of lactic acid may be transformed to itscorresponding esters, amides, thioesters, or salts. The salt ofoligomers of lactic acid may be any pharmaceutically acceptable saltsuch as sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium or ammonium, ortrometamole salt. In addition, the oligomers of lactic acid may be foundas complexes with metals or with macromolecules.

The physical appearance of the oligomeric product depends on the meanmolecular weight ranging from a fluid, semi-solid and to a solidproduct. The lower molecular weight, the more fluid the product is. Thewater-solubility is also dependent on the average molecular weight. Theless oligomerization of the lactic acid, the higher is thewater-solubility. These properties can also be used in the design of asuitable composition. Thus if e.g. a fast dissolving product is desiredwith fast release properties, then an oligomeric product with arelatively low weight average molecular weight should be chosen (e.g.HL₃-HL₆), whereas if a less soluble product is desired and a longerrelease time, then an oligomeric product with a higher weight averagemolecular weight should be chosen (e.g. HL₅-H₁₀ or even higher).Moreover, the individual oligomeric product can be chosen dependent onthe final dosage form. Thus, e.g. for a gel formulation or other liquidor semi-solid compositions, the choice of oligomeric product couldsuitably be among the fluid, semi-fluid oligomeric products, whereas forsolid compositions such as, e.g., tablets or capsules, the solidoligomeric products could be more convenient.

In one embodiment the oligomer of lactic acid has a water solubility ofat least 1 weight percent, such as 0.1 to 50, 1 to 50 weight percent, 1to 30 weight percent, or 5 to 30 weight percent at room temperature. Thewater solubility of the oligomers of lactic acid is dependent on thelength of the oligomer. Moreover, the solubility may be in increased indiluted alkaline solutions.

In one embodiment the one or more oligomers of lactic acid has a M_(w)of from 400 to 2,000 g/mol. In a specific embodiment the one or moreoligomers of lactic acid has a M_(w) of from 380 to 760 g/mol, such asfrom 400 to 700 g/mol, from 450 to 650 g/mol, from 500 to 650 g/mol,from 550 to 625 g/mol, or from 550 to 600 g/mol. The oligomer may besubstantially pure as defined herein or, more typically, the one or moreoligomers of lactic acid is contained in an oligomeric product with acertain polydispersity. The polydispersity is typically about 1.2 to 1.5such as, e.g., from about 1.3 to about 1.4, but the product may also bepurified to a lower polydispersity, if desired.

In an embodiment of the invention, the one or more oligomers of lacticacid has a M_(n) of from 250 to 1,500 g/mol. In a specific embodimentthe M_(n) is from 250 to 760 g/mol such as, e.g., from 380 to 760 g/mol,such as from 400 to 700 g/mol, from 450 to 650 g/mol. In a furtherembodiment, the M_(n) is from 500 to 600 g/mol, from 525 to 600 g/mol,or from 525 to 575 g/mol. In the examples herein are given examples ofcorresponding values of M_(w) and M_(n) and polydispersity index.

In another specific embodiment the one or more oligomers of lactic acidhas a M_(w) of from 700 to 2,000 g/mol. In a specific embodiment the oneor more oligomers of lactic acid has a M_(w) of from 700 to 1,700 g/mol,such as from 700 to 1,000 g/mol, from 1,000 to 1,500 g/mol, from 1,500to 2,000 g/mol. The oligomer may be substantially pure as defined hereinor, more typically, the one or more oligomers of lactic acid arecontained in an oligomeric product with a certain polydispersity. Thepolydispersity is typically about 1.2 to 1.5 such as, e.g., from about1.3 to about 1.5, but the product may also be purified to a lowerpolydispersity, if desired.

In another specific embodiment the one or more oligomers of lactic acidhas a M_(n) of from 500 to 1,500 g/mol. In a specific embodiment the oneor more oligomers of lactic acid has a M_(n) of from 500 to 1,300 g/mol,such as from 600 to 1,100 g/mol. In another embodiment, the M_(n) is1,000 to 1,500 g/mol or from 1,000 to 1,200 g/mol. The oligomer may besubstantially pure as defined herein or, more typically, the one or moreoligomers of lactic acid is contained in an oligomeric product with acertain polydispersity. The polydispersity is typically about 1.2 to 1.5such as, e.g., from about 1.3 to about 1.5, but the product may also bepurified to a lower polydispersity, if desired.

In one embodiment the polydispersity index of the oligomers of lacticacid according to the present invention is less than 1.8 such as lessthan 1.7. More typically, the polydispersity index is 1.5 or less, suchas less than 1.4, or from 1.2, to 1.4. The more purified the product isthe lower is the polydispersity index. Accordingly, for some embodimentsof the invention the polydispersity index is less than 1.2 or less than1.1. For pure oligomers the polydispersity index may be less than 1.08,less than 1.06, less than 1.04, less than 1.02, or less than 1.01.

In one embodiment the one or more oligomers of lactic acid or theoligomeric product have an inherent viscosity at 25° C. in the range of10⁻³ to 10¹² Pa·s, such as 10⁻¹ to 10⁹ Pa·s, 1 to 10⁵ Pa·s, whendetermined by a rheometer.

In one embodiment the one or more oligomers of lactic acid releaselactic acid over a time period of at least 4 hours, at least 8 hours, atleast 12 hours, such as at least 16 hours, at least 20 hours, at least24 hours, at least 36 hours, at least 2 days, at least 3 days, at least4 days, at least 5 days, at least 6 days, or at least 7 days whenexposed to water at room temperature.

As discussed herein before, a mixture of oligomers are obtained and canbe used as such. In such mixtures normally at the most 10-20% w/w of theindividual oligomers are present.

Specific Oligomeric Products of the Invention are:

i) an Oligomeric Product Containing

10-20% w/w of HL₂

15-25% w/w of HL₃

10-20% w/w of HL₄ and

8-15% w/w of HL₅

ii) an Oligomeric Product Containing

10-15% w/w of HL₂

15-25% w/w of HL₃

10-15% w/w of HL₄ and

10-15% w/w of HL₅

iii) an Oligomeric Product Containing

7-15% w/w of HL₂

7-15% w/w of HL₃

7-15% w/w of HL₄ and

8-15% w/w of HL₅

iv) an Oligomeric Product Containing

2.5-10% w/w of HL₂

4-15% w/w of HL₃

5-15% w/w of HL₄ and

5-15% w/w of HL₅

v) an Oligomeric Product Containing

2.5-7.5% w/w of HL₂

5-10% w/w of HL₃

5-12% w/w of HL₄ and

5-12% w/w of HL₅

vi) an Oligomeric Product Containing

5-15% w/w of HL₃

5-15% w/w of HL₄

5-15% w/w of HL₅

5-10% w/w of HL₆ and

5-15% w/w of HL₇

vii) an Oligomeric Product Containing

5-10% w/w of HL₃

5-10% w/w of HL₄

5-10% w/w of HL₅

5-10% w/w of HL₆ and

5-10% w/w of HL₇

viii) an Oligomeric Product Containing

2.5-7.5% w/w of HL₃

5-10% w/w of HL₄

5-10% w/w of HL₅

5-10% w/w of HL₆ and

5-15% w/w of HL₇

Other embodiments of the invention are more purified products such asthe following.

In another embodiment at least 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, atleast 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, atleast 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lacticacid is a trimer of lactic acid (n=2).

In another embodiment at least 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, atleast 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, atleast 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lacticacid is a tetramer of lactic acid (n=3).

In another embodiment at least 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, atleast 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, atleast 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lacticacid is a pentamer of lactic acid (n=4).

In another embodiment at least 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, atleast 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, atleast 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lacticacid is a hexamer of lactic acid (n=5).

In another embodiment at least 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, atleast 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, atleast 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lacticacid is a heptamer of lactic acid (n=6).

In another embodiment at least 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, atleast 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, atleast 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lacticacid is a octamer of lactic acid (n=7).

In another embodiment at least 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, atleast 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, atleast 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lacticacid is a nonamer of lactic acid (n=8).

In another embodiment at least 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, atleast 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, atleast 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lacticacid is a decamer of lactic acid (n=9).

Acidifying Properties

A low pH of the vagina is due to production of lactic acid bylactobacilli metabolism, and as well as the conversion of glycogen tolactic acid by oestrogenised vaginal epithelial cells. In culturelactobacilli acidify their growth medium to a pH of 3.2-4.8. At that pHrange a steady state of equilibrium develops where the acidity becomesauto-inhibitory. Anaerobes grow poorly at pH 4.5 or less. In vitrostudies show that the concentrations of BV associated bacteria increasewith increasing vaginal pH. However, it has been found that lactic acidand low pH caused more mashed inhibitory effect of these bacteria thanhydrogen peroxide. However, when there is a rise in vaginal pH, such asafter sex and during menses, bacterial overgrowth could occur.Interestingly, a low pH seems to be important for adherence oflactobacilli to the epithelial cells. BV can also be produced byinoculating BV associated bacteria into a healthy vagina as shown in theinitial work by Gardner and Dukes (Gardner H L, Dukes C D. Haemophilusvaginalis vaginitis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 1955;69:962-76).

Thus, the exact mechanism for the onset of BV remains unsolved. BV isassociated with a reduced number of lactobacilli (LB) and a lowerhydrogen peroxide production. There is a rise in the vaginal pH, and theovergrowth of BV associated organisms. Currently, it is not known whatcauses the reduction in hydrogen peroxide producing strains oflactobacilli in BV.

In other words, the main goal to prevent or treat BV is to keep thevaginal pH at 4.5 or less. This will prevent overgrowth of pathogenicbacteria until the normal LB are re-established and able to maintain thepH.

Intermittent pH lowering therapy, on an episodic or prophylactic basis,may be considered to prevent or treat recurrent BV.

The invention includes a method as well as a formulation for prophylaxisand/or treatment of bacterial vaginosis, by providing a therapeuticallyeffective amount of one or more oligomers of lactic acid or derivativesthereof or a combination of such oligomers of lactic acid or derivativesthereof.

The formulation may also consist of a therapeutically effectivecombination one or more oligomers of lactic acid and lactate.

Adhesiveness

Mucoadhesion (or bioadhesion) is defined as the process wherebysynthetic and natural macromolecules adhere to various mucosal surfacesin the body. If a molecule possesses mucoadhesive properties or if suchmucoadhesive materials are incorporated as constituents intopharmaceutical formulations, local drug action or drug absorption bymucosal cells may be enhanced or prolonged. Moreover, if mucoadhesiveproperties are present in the molecule or if mucoadhesive constituentsare incorporated, drug release and action may be increased at the siteof application for an extended period of time.

OMLA itself possesses some mucoadhesive properties, however incombination with other polymers present in a formulation, used as amatrix or coating, OMLA exhibits a pronounced mucoadhesiveness or atleast some mucoadhesiveness depending on the molecular weight (see TableI below). As can be seen below, the mucoadhesiveness for the OMLA gels,patches and vagitoria are judged as (3) pronounced to (4) verypronounced.

This property is inherent in the OMLA molecule and clearly demonstrableas shown in the chemical and preformulation experiments made. The extentof the mucoadhesivness for OMLA is so pronounced that there will be noneed for adding further mucoadhesive constituents to the formulationsduring the galenic development of vagitories or pessaries based on OMLA.

For synthetic polymers, such as the cellulose derivatives, chitosans,carbopols and carbomers, the mechanism of bio/mucoadhesion is the resultof a number of different physicochemical interactions. This will also bethe likely mechanism(s) for the pronounced mucoadhesiveness which isseen for OMLA.

TABLE I Mucoadhesive properties of OMLA formulations Fluid Gel PatchVagitoria Lactic acid, 85% purity 0 — — — OMLA (mainly tetramer tooctamer) — 3 4 3 OMLA (mainly pentamer to decamer) — 4 4 4

It should be noted that lactic acid is a liquid and present only influid form, while the OMLA become gradually more semisolid to solid withextending the length of the molecule. In the compositions comprisingOMLA, OMLA is not present in fluid form but only in semisolid or solidform.

Mucoadhesiveness (or bioadhesiveness) is given according to a 5 gradedVAS scale, where 0 denotes no mucoadhesive properties and 4 verypronounced mucoadhesive properties.

In a specific embodiment of the present invention the one or moreoligomers of lactic acid have a mucoadhesiveness of at least 3 such as,e.g. at least 4 or 5 on a graded VAS scale.

Management of Bacterial Vaginosis

When using oral or vaginal preparations of metronidazole andclindamycin, women will have an initial 80-90% response to treatment butthere will be 15-30% relapse within 3 months. When considering theassociation between lactobacilli, hydrogen peroxide production, vaginalpH, and overgrowth of BV associated bacteria, adjustment of only one ofthese may help some women with recurrent BV, but it may be insufficientto resolve all cases.

Although there is a well known inter-relation between lactobacilli,hydrogen peroxide production, vaginal pH, and overgrowth of BVassociated bacteria, the initiating factor for BV remains unresolved.

Treatment only focusing on one aspect of this inter-relation may benefitsome women with recurrent BV, but a combined approach is superior. Sincebacterial vaginosis can also be asymptomatic, recurrence often cannot bedifferentiated from treatment failure. Thus, recurrent bacterialvaginosis may be prevented by using effective therapy for the initialepisode.

In one embodiment the one or more oligomers of lactic acid are used forthe preparation of a formulation for the prophylaxis and/or treatment ofgynaecological infections. In a further embodiment the gynaecologicalinfection is a bacterial infection, such as bacterial vaginosis,unspecific colpitis, senile colpitis, cervicitis, and urethritis. In afurther embodiment the gynaecological infection is a fungal infection,such as candidosis (candida albicans), cryptococcosis, actinomycosis. Ina further embodiment the gynaecological infection is a viral infection,such as Human Immunodefiency Virus (HIV), Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV),Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).

Formulations

An OMLA according to the present invention or used according to thepresent invention is normally presented as a pharmaceutical formulation,i.e. OMLA is present in the formulation together with one or morepharmaceutically acceptable excipients.

The pharmaceutically acceptable excipients may be selected from thegroup consisting of carriers, diluents, binders, disintegrating agents,flow-improving agents, pH-adjusting agents, stabilising agents,viscosity adjusting agents, preservatives, gelling or swelling agents,surfactants, emulsifying agents, suspending agents, bases forsuppositories, vagitories or pessaries, bases for creams, ointments,gels, lotions, shampoos, foam, sprays and the like. The specific choiceof pharmaceutically acceptable excipients depends on the specific formor the formulation, e.g. the dosage form. A person skilled in the artcan find guidance e.g. in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences (Gennaro,Alfonso R., ed., 18. ed., 1990, xvi, Mack, ISBN: 0-912734-04-3).

The final formulation may also comprise one or several pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts such as phosphate, succinate, lysinate, acetate,cypionate, valerate, hemisuccinate, butyrate, or trometamole salt aloneor in combination. The amount of lactate polymer or derivative includedin each dose preparation may range from 0.01 mg to 50 g per dose unitbut is preferentially 0.5 mg to 5 g. The formulation of one or moreoligomers of lactic acid will restore normal physiological pH in thevagina. This will reduce the number of anaerobic bacteria which causethe characteristic unpleasant vaginosis malodour through trimethylamineproduction.

In one embodiment according to the present invention the formulationcomprises i) one or more oligomers of lactic acid or derivative thereofas defined in any of items 1-40, ii) a combination of one or moreoligomers of lactic acid or derivative thereof as defined in any ofitems 1-40, or iii) a combination of i) and/or ii) and/or lactic acidfor the prophylaxis and/or treatment of a microbial infection accordingto any of items 1-4.

In one embodiment the formulation comprises at least 0.01% w/w of theone or more oligomers of lactic acid. In another embodiment theformulation comprises from about 0.02% to 100% w/w such as, e.g. fromabout 0.1% to about 95% w/w, from about 1% to about 95% w/w, from about5% to about 95% w/w, from about 10% to about 90% w/w, from about 15% toabout 90% w/w, from about 15% to about 50% w/w or from about 15% toabout 40% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lactic acid.

In one embodiment the one or more oligomers of lactic acid releaselactic acid over a time period of at least 8 hours, at least 12 hours,such as at least 16 hours, at least 20 hours, at least 24 hours, atleast 36 hours, at least 2 days, at least 3 days, at least 4 days, atleast 5 days, at least 6 days, or at least 7 days when exposed to waterat room temperature.

In one embodiment the formulation is designed for vaginaladministration. In another embodiment the formulation is forintravaginal or transvaginal administration.

In one embodiment the formulation is a solid, semi-solid or liquidformulation. In another embodiment according to the present inventionthe galenic formulation is in the form of a tampon, vagitorium, vaginalaerosol, vaginal cup, vaginal gel, vaginal insert, vaginal patch,vaginal ring, vaginal sponge, vaginal suppository, vaginal cream,vaginal emulsion, vaginal foam, vaginal lotion, vaginal ointment,vaginal powder, vaginal shampoo, vaginal solution, vaginal spray,vaginal suspension, vaginal tablet, vaginal rod, vaginal shaum, vaginaldisc, semipermeable packaging and any combination thereof.

In one embodiment the pharmaceutical agent of the formulation accordingto the invention is incorporated into the device as a controlled releasedrug delivery system.

In one embodiment the formulation comprises glycogen or precurors orderivatives thereof, e.g. to serve as a source of sustenance forLactobacillus.

In another embodiment the formulation comprises probiotics in the formof live micro-organisms such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or similarspecies, which when administered in adequate amounts confer a healthbenefit on the host, resulting in a Lactobacilli-reestablishment of theLactobacillus-dominant vaginal flora.

In a further embodiment the pH-adjusting agents provide a pH lower than5, such as lower than 4 in order to obtain a more rapid restoration ofthe acid milieu to optimize the therapeutic response and the regrowth ofLactobacilli.

A formulation according to the invention may be in any suitable form.The specific form should be chosen dependent on the specificadministration route. Thus, for oral administration (to the GI tract),semi-solid or solid compositions are preferred such as, e.g., soliddosage forms (e.g. tablets, capsules, sachets), powders, granules,beads, pellets etc. For topical administration or administration to theoral cavity gel, creams, ointments, lotions, powders, patches, toothpaste, mouth wash etc. may be suitable. A person skilled in the art willfind guidance e.g. in Remington's Pharmaceutical Sciences for thepreparation of such forms and for selection of suitable pharmaceuticallyacceptable excipients.

In a specific aspect the formulation is designed to be administered tothe vagina. In such cases the following dosage forms are suitable:

Viscosity-Adjusting or Adhesion Promoting Agents

In one embodiment of the invention the formulation further comprises oneor more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients selected from the groupconsisting of cellulose derivatives such as hydroxypropylmethylcellulose (HPMC), methyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC),hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose,carboxymethyl cellulose and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (Na CMC),starch derivatives such as moderately cross-linked starch, acrylicpolymers such as carbomer and its derivatives (Polycarbophyl, Carbopol®,etc); polyethylene oxide (PEO), chitosan (poly-(D-glucosamine); naturalpolymers such as gelatin, sodium alginate, pectin, scleroglucan,tragacanth, gellan, xanthan gum or guar gum, poly co-(methylvinylether/maleic anhydride), microcrystalline cellulose/Avicel®), andcrosscarmellose. In another embodiment of the invention theconcentration of the pharmaceutically acceptable excipient is in therange 0.05 to 10 weight percent, such as 0.1 to 5 weight percent, of theformulation. In yet another embodiment the one or more pharmaceuticallyacceptable excipients are vaginal mucoadhesive promoting agents and/orviscosity-adjusting agents.

Antimicrobial Properties

A microbiological study throughout the menstrual cycle, have shown thatthe concentration of non-LB species was higher at menses. Thus, there isa potential for bacterial overgrowth at that time, since there isinstability of the vaginal flora.

The idea of adding antibacterial components to the preparation is thatpathogenic bacteria produce hydrolytic enzymes which degrade the vaginalmucine lining. This effect of the pathogens damages the normalprotective vaginal mucous lining.

The formulation may also include one or more antimicrobial agents suchas antibiotics, such as clindamycin or metronidazol, essential oils,such as tea tree oil, cations or elements, such as Hg, Cu, Pb, or Ag,polyene antimycotic, imidazole, triazole, allyamines, echinocandin,aciclovir, amantadine, alcohols, quartenary ammmonium compounds, boricacid, chlorhexidine gluconate, hydrogen peroxide, urea hydrogenperoxide, iodine, mercurochrome, octenine dihydrochloride, phenolic(carbolic acid) compounds, sodium chloride, sodium hypochlorite,nonoxynol as well as combinations and/or mixtures of such agents. Anoxygenating compound such as H₂O₂ will provide an unfavourable milieufor the pathogenic anaerobic bacteria characteristic of the bacterialvaginosis. In addition, some oxygenating compounds such as H₂O₂ may alsoadd antibacterial properties for the pathogens. Lactobacilli, whichthemselves produce H₂O₂, are less adversely affected of e.g. H₂O₂.

The antimicrobial agent may be used in appropriate concentrationsrecognised by a person skilled in the art. The concentration ofantimicrobial agent may be more than 0.01 weight percent, such as is inthe range 0.01 to 50 weight percent, such as 0.01 to 25 weight percent,from 0.05 to 25 weight percent, 0.1 to 10 weight percent, 0.5 to 5weight percent of the formulation.

In one embodiment according to the invention the formulation furthercomprises an antibacterial agent selected from the group consisting ofclindamycin, tetracycline, amoxicillin, ampicillin, erythromycin,doxycycline, lumefloxacin, norfloxacin, afloxam, ciproflaxin,azitromycin, cefltoxine, and chlorchinaldol.

In another embodiment according to the invention the formulation furthercomprises a formulation of one or more antibacterial agents for theprophylaxis and/or treatment of gynaecological infections as definedherein.

In another embodiment according to the invention the antibacterial agentis selected from the group consisting of clindamycin, tetracycline,amoxicillin, ampicillin, erythromycin, doxycycline, lumefloxacin,norfloxacin, afloxam, ciproflaxin, azitromycin, cefltoxine.

In another embodiment according to the invention the amount ofantibacterial agent is in the range from 5 mg to 1000 mg per dose.

In another embodiment according to the invention the antibacterial agentselected from the group consisting of tetracycline, doxycycline,azithromycin, or erythromycin is incorporated into a tampon.

In another embodiment according to the invention the formulation furthercomprises one or more broad spectrum antibiotic agent.

In a further embodiment according to the invention the broad spectrumantibiotic agent is selected from the group consisting of clindamycin,tetracycline, amoxicillin, ampicillin, erythromycin, doxycycline,lumefloxacin, norfloxacin, afloxam, ciproflaxin, azithromycin cefitoxinefor the prophylaxis and/or treatment of gonorrhea or chlamydialinfections. In yet a further embodiment according to the invention theamount of broad spectrum antibiotic agent is in the range from 100 mg to3000 mg per dose.

In a further embodiment according to the invention the broad spectrumantibiotic agent is selected from the group consisting of tetracycline,amoxicillin, ampicillin, lumefloxacin, norfloxacin, afloxam,ciproflaxin, azithromycin or cefitoxine for prophylaxis and/or treatmentof gonorrhea. In a further embodiment according to the invention theamount of broad spectrum antibiotic agent is in the range from 400 mg to3000 mg per dose.

In a further embodiment according to the invention the formulationfurther one or more broad spectrum antibiotic agents selected from thegroup consisting of tetracycline, doxycycline, and erythromycin fortreatment of chlamydial infections. In yet a further embodiment theamount of broad spectrum antibiotic agent is in the range from 100 mg to2000 mg per dose. In yet a further embodiment the formulation is in theform of a tampon.

In one embodiment according to the invention the formulation furthercomprises an antichlamydial agent selected from the group consisting oftetracycline, doxycycline, and erythromycin.

In one embodiment according to the invention the formulation furthercomprises an antifungal agent selected from the group consisting ofmiconazole, terconazole, isoconazole, fenticonazole, fluconazole,nystatin, ketoconazole, clotrimazole, butoconazole, econazole,tioconazole, itraconazole, 5-fluoracil, and metronidazole. In anotherembodiment the amount of antifungal agent per dose is in the range from0.1 mg to 2000 mg for treatment of candidiasis. In a further embodimentone or more antifungal agents selected from the group consisting ofketoconazole, miconazole and metronidazole and optionally, the agent isincorporated into a tampon.

In one embodiment according to the invention the formulation furthercomprises a spermicidal agent

In one embodiment according to the invention the formulation accordingto any of items 60-64, which further comprises an antiviral agentselected from the group consisting of acyclovir, femciclovir,valacyclovir, and AZT.

In one embodiment according to the invention the formulation accordingto any of the items 60-63, wherein the formulation further comprises anantiviral agent. In another embodiment the antiviral agent is selectedfrom the group consisting of acyclovir, femciclovir, valacyclovir, andAZT. In a further embodiment the amount of antiviral agent is in therange from 100 mg to 1200 mg per dose. In yet a further embodiment theantiviral agent is acyclovir and is incorporated into a tampon.

In one embodiment according to the invention the formulation accordingto any of items 65-66 which further comprises an trichomonicidal orparasiticidal agent selected from the group consisting of metronidazoleand clotrimazol.

In one embodiment according to the invention the formulation accordingto any of the items 65-67, wherein the formulation further comprisesmetronidazole for treatment of trichomoniasis. In another embodiment theamount of metronidazole is in the range from 10 mg to 750 mg per dose.

Antiadhesion Agents

The formulation may further comprise one or more antiadhesion agents.Lactobacilli which confer the favourable acidifying properties in thevaginal milieu are not adhered to the vaginal mucosa. However pathogenicfungi are adhered to the mucosa and pathogenic bacteria may be incontact with the mucosa and degrade the protective lining of the normalhealthy vaginal mucosa. This may enhance the risk of recurrence of thevaginosis in susceptible patients. Thus, a formulation includes one orseveral compounds that prevent such mucoadhesion by pathogens may bebeneficial for the prophylaxis, prevention and treatment of bacterialvaginosis. The current invention may include one or several carrier corematerial which prevents the mucoadhesion of pathogenic microorganisms,preferentially anaerobic bacteria and fungi. Antiadhesion agents may beagents that serve as either a barrier preventing adhesion or as an agentthat causes already adhered microorganisms to disadhere. Examples ofantiadhesion agents causing disadherence may be mannose, lactose,xylitol, and other sugar alcohols. The final formulation may consist ofcombinations and/or mixtures of several compounds, each in effectiveamounts when used alone or together.

In one embodiment of the invention the antiadhesion agent is selectedfrom the group consisting of mannose, lactose, xylitol, and other sugaralcohols.

In another embodiment of the invention the amount of antiadhesion agentis in the range 0.01 to 10 weight percent, such as 0.1 to 5 weightpercent, of the formulation.

Surfactants

In one embodiment according to the present invention the formulationcomprises one or more surfactants selected from the group consisting ofsodium lauryl sulphate, polysorbates, bile acids, bile salts, lecithin,phospholipids, methyl laurate, oleic acid, oleyl alcohol, glycerolmonoleate, glycerol dioleate, glycerol trioleate, glycerol monostearate,glycerol monolaurate, phospho lipids, propylene glycol monolaurate,sodium dodecyl sulphate, sorbitan ester, salt of cholic acid, cholanicacid, poloxamer, Cremophor, and other polyoxyethylated lipids, and anycombination thereof.

In a further embodiment according to the present invention theconcentration of the surfactant is in the range 0.01 to 10 weightpercent, such as 0.1 to 5 weight percent, of the formulation.

In one embodiment the pharmaceutically acceptable excipient of theformulation according to the invention is a lipophilic or hydrophiliccarrier. Examples of lipophilic carriers are waxes, oils, isopropylmyristate, solid triglycerides, and cocoa butter. Examples ofhydrophilic carriers are glycerol, propylene glycol, polyoxyethyleneglycol.

In another embodiment the formulation according to the invention is forintravaginal delivery and comprises one or more lipophilic orhydrophilic carriers and one or more mucoadhesive agents in totalconcentrations in the range from 60 to 90% w/w and from 5 to 25% w/w,respectively.

In another embodiment the formulation according to the invention is fortransvaginal delivery and comprises one or more lipophilic orhydrophilic carriers, one or more mucoadhesive agents, and one or morepenetration enhancers or sorption promoters in total concentrations inthe range from 60 to 90% w/w, from 5 to 25% w/w, and from 5 to 20% w/w,respectively.

In another embodiment the formulation further comprises one or morelipophilic carriers of semi-synthetic glycerides of saturated fattyacids of 8-18 carbon atoms.

In another embodiment the formulation further comprises the hydrophiliccarrier polyethylene glycol of a molecular weight from 400 to 6000. In afurther embodiment the concentration of polyethylene glycol is in therange from 60 to 90% w/w.

In another embodiment the formulation further comprises the mucoadhesiveagents alginate, pectin, or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose. In a furtherembodiment the concentration of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose is in therange from 5 to 20% w/w. In yet a further embodiment the penetrationenhancer is a surfactant, bile salt, or ethoxyglycol. In yet a furtherembodiment the concentration of ethoxyglycol is in the range from 5 to30% w/w.

In another embodiment according to the present invention the formulationcomprises one or more oligomers of lactic acid, one or more derivativesthereof, or a combination of one or more oligomers of lactic acid andone or more derivatives thereof in admixture with a pharmaceuticallyacceptable and non-toxic excipient comprising from about 60 to 90% w/wof lipophilic or hydrophilic carrier and from about 5 to about 25% w/wof mucoadhesive agent for intravaginal delivery, or from about 60 toabout 90% w/w of lipophilic or hydrophilic carrier, from about 5 toabout 25% w/w of mucoadhesive agent and from about 5 and 20% w/w ofpenetration enhancer for transvaginal delivery.

In another embodiment according to the present invention the formulationfurther comprises a lipophilic carrier of semi-synthetic glyceride ofsaturated fatty acids of 8-18 carbon atoms, wherein the hydrophiliccarrier is polyethylene glycol of a molecular weight from 400 to 6000 inthe range from 60 to 90% w/w, and wherein the mucoadhesive agent isalginate, pectin or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, wherein theconcentration of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose is in the range from 5 to20% w/w; and wherein the penetration enhancer is a surfactant, bile saltor ethoxyglycol, wherein the amount of ethoxyglycol is in the range from5 to 30% w/w.

Device

In one embodiment the formulation of oligomers of lactic acid accordingto the present invention may be a device for the prophylaxis and/ortreatment of gynaecological microbial bacterial infections, whichdelivers a therapeutically effective amount of one or more oligomers oflactic acid or derivatives thereof or a combination of one or moreoligomers of lactic acid or derivatives thereof intravaginally ortransvaginally to uterus or general circulation through a vaginalmucosa, to a subject in need thereof.

In one embodiment the present invention comprises a device for thedelivery of a formulation as defined herein for the prophylaxis and/ortreatment of a gynaecological infection as defined herein.

In another embodiment according to the present invention the device isintravaginal.

In another embodiment according to the present invention the formulationcomprised in the device is administered intravaginally ortransvaginally.

In one embodiment the formulation is a solid, semi-solid or liquidformulation. In another embodiment according to the present inventionthe galenic formulation is in the form of a tampon, vagitorium, vaginalcup, vaginal insert, vaginal patch, vaginal ring, vaginal sponge,vaginal spray, vaginal powder, vaginal rod, vaginal shaum, vaginal disc,semipermeable packaging and any combination thereof.

In another embodiment according to the present invention thepharmaceutical agent is incorporated into the device as a controlledrelease drug delivery system.

Kit

In one embodiment the formulation of oligomers of lactic acid accordingto the present invention may be in a kit for the prophylaxis and/ortreatment of gynaecological infections as defined herein, whichcomprises at least a first and a second component, wherein the firstcomponent comprises a formulation as defined herein and the secondcomponent comprises instructions for use of the formulation.

In another embodiment the first component of the kit comprises aformulation as defined herein and the second component comprises meansfor administration of the formulation.

In a further embodiment a further third component of the kit comprisesinstructions for use of the formulation.

In another embodiment the kit may comprise a formulation is in the formof a vaginal device and the means for administration is an applicator.

Package

In one embodiment the present invention comprises a package or containerfor storage of a kit as defined herein.

Method of Treatment

In one aspect the present invention comprises a method for theprophylaxis and/or treatment of a gynaecological infection, the methodcomprising administering to a subject in need thereof an effective doseof one or more oligomers of lactic acid as defined herein, optionally inform of a formulation as defined herein.

In another aspect the present invention comprises a method for themanagement, prophylaxis and/or treatment of odour from vaginaldischarge, the method comprising administering to a subject in needthereof an effective dose of one or more oligomers of lactic acid addefined herein, optionally in form of a formulation as defined herein.

In yet another aspect the present invention comprises a method for themanagement, prophylaxis and/or treatment of odour from vaginaldischarge, the method comprising administering to a subject in needthereof an effective dose of one or more oligomers of lactic acid addefined herein, optionally in form of a formulation as defined herein,and wherein the formulation comprises a sanitary device.

LEGEND OF FIGURES

FIG. 1. OMLA 12 (dialysis sac)—changes of pH. When OMLA (substance) isplaced in a dialysis bag, due to diffusion (OMLA and LA fromdegradation) pH of the outside aqueous compartment decreases. The pHchange occurs for a long time; despite of replacing water outside of thedialysis bag after 3, 7 and 47 h. A) pH 1 h after replacing the liquid.B), C), and D) pH change through the periods between the exchange ofwater outside of the dialysis bag.

FIG. 2. OMLA 31 (dialysis sac)—changes of pH. This is the same type ofthe experiment as FIG. 1, but with OMLA 31. The water was exchangedafter 6, 46 and 88 hours. Less low-molecular components are present andthe effect is weaker and slower as expected. FIG. 2A represents the pHvalue 1 h after replacing the liquid, and FIG. 2B-2D show pH changethrough the periods between the exchange of water outside of thedialysis bag.

FIG. 3. The profile of release of free lactic acid from OMLA 31 (0.209g) determined by titration with KOH using magnetic stirring in water at20° C. The figure presents the quantity of acids (OMLA of low molecularweight and LA) dissolved in water. Half of the OMLA is probably of lowmolecular weight, whereas the rest dissolves slowly.

FIG. 4. A) Changes in pH values (average) outside of the dialysis bag:OMLA enables to maintain low pH for longer time than LA. B) Releaseprofiles of LA and OMLA from the dialysis bag: Lactic acid is releasedfrom the dialysis bag immediately, while 50% of OMLA (higher molecularweight) is released fast and 50% is released slowly (middle line). OMLAof the higher molecular weight does not hydrolyse in water for a longtime, since the middle line is higher than the lowest line (release ofacids form OMLA).

FIG. 5. A) Flow through cell for suppositories at 37° C. B) The changesof the pH of the acceptor water (at 37° C.) as a function of time inExample 4.

FIG. 6. A) Flow through cell for suppositories at 37° C. The release ofacids (% total) from pessaries does not depend on the OMLA-gelatineratio. B) Flow through cell for suppositories at 37° C. Due to lowestcontent of OMLA in the pessary 0.1/3 g the decrease of pH is the lowest.Thus the OMLA content in the formulation is a factor which enables pHregulation.

FIG. 7. A) The release of LA from a gel in a dialysis magnetic cell at37° C. The release of OMLA acids from gel is prolonged and does not showthe initial “burst” observed for OMLA (FIG. 3). B) The changes of the pHof the acceptor water (at 37° C.) as a function of time in Example 7, ina dialysis magnetic cell at 37° C. The pH of the acceptor fluid isconstant for a long time due to slow release of OMLA acids from the HECgel.

FIG. 8. A) Flask with magnetic stirrer at 37° C. The lower line presentsthe release of OMLA acids from the EC disc, while the upper shows thatpart of the OMLA released form the disc is still non degraded andrelease acids only after full hydrolysis. B) Flask with magnetic stirrerat 37° C. Slow release of OMLA and OMLA acids from the disc results in areduction of pH for a very long time, despite of the frequent change ofthe acceptor media to pure water.

FIG. 9. ESI mass analysis of oligomers of LA produced by heating to 120°C. for A) 10, B) 20, and C) 31 hours, respectively.

FIG. 10 Lactic acid release via hydrolysis of OMLA 30. The acid releasedepicted in percentage of total acidic content of OMLA 30. Titrationperformed with KOH. The acid releasing effect can be seen up to 48 h.

FIG. 11. Four different formulations of lyophilised tablets containing,respectively, different mucoadhesive polymers; A (HMPC (a), tested invivo), B (HMPC+MC (b)), C (HMPC+MC (c)) and D (HEC (d)), the polymeramount given in Example 15 for each formulation. Acid release is givenas percentage of total acid content of OMLA 30 titrated against KOH.

FIG. 12A. The monitoring of administration of OMLA 30 in pessaryformulation, displaying both an immediate effect as well as a prolongedeffect on the pH in the vaginal tract.

FIG. 12B. The monitoring of administration of OMLA 30 in lyophilizedvaginal tablet formulation, displaying a somewhat slower effect onlowering the pH and a total duration 72 h.

FIG. 12C. The monitoring of administration of Lactal® gel displaying animmediate effect on the pH but no tendency of any persistent effect onkeeping a low pH.

FIG. 12D. The monitoring of administration of Vivag® initiallyincreasing the pH and thereafter lower the same. The lowering effectappears to be present under a period of little more than 12 h.

EXAMPLES Example 1

Preparation of an Oligomer of Lactic Acid

Oligomers of lactic acid (OMLA) were produced by heating a commercialquality of lactic acid (LA), containing 85% LA and 15% water, at 120° C.in open tubes for different times, thus oligomerising LA to variousdegrees and producing products with varying viscosity. The number of theOMLA product (e.g. OMLA 12) indicates for how many hours it was heated.

The various oligomers were characterised as described in Example 9.

Example 2

In Vitro Release of Lactic Acid from OMLA 12

This experiment demonstrates the efficiency of OMLA as a source ofacidic components and for retaining low pH for a prolonged time.

Release of acidity from OMLA (OMLA 12, formed after 12 hours at 120°C.). OMLA 12, 1 g, was placed in a dialysis bag which was placed indistilled water, 50 ml, at room temperature. The water was stirredcontinuously with a magnet stirrer. The pH of the water was measured atregular intervals, after replacing the liquid as well as during theintervals between exchanges. After 3, 7 and 47 hours the water wasexchanged with fresh water. The results are shown in FIG. 1, where thegraphs demonstrate the changes of pH measured in water outside thedialysis bag. FIG. 1A represents the pH value 1 h after replacing theliquid, and FIG. 1B-1D show pH change through the periods between theexchanges of water outside of the dialysis bag. It is evident that OMLAproduces acid for many hours (days) during the experimental conditions.

The results indicate that the release of acidic components from OMLA isconstant and prolonged.

Example 3

In Vitro Release of Lactic Acid from OMLA 31

This experiment demonstrates the efficiency of OMLA as a source ofacidic components and for retaining low pH for a prolonged time andallows for comparison whether the effect can be related to the molecularweight of OMLA.

An experiment identical to Example 2 was conducted with OMLA 31 (formedafter 31 hours at 120° C.), although the water outside of the dialysissac was exchanged more frequently (every hour up 7 h, and later after21, 45 and 88 h). Results are shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 2A represents the pHvalue 1 h after replacing the liquid, and FIG. 2B-2D show pH changethrough the periods between the exchanges of water outside of thedialysis bag.

The conclusions are the same as given in Example 2. Moreover, it isdemonstrated that depending on the molecular weight of OMLA thereduction of pH may be larger or smaller: pH between 3 and 4.5 waseasier to maintain when OMLA 31 was used, while with OMLA 12 the pH wasbelow 3.0 for long time intervals.

Example 4

Titration of Free Carboxylic Groups in OMLA

The experiment demonstrates acidity of OMLA as a content of carboxylicgroups and evaluates the rate of OMLA hydrolysis to free LA.

209 mg of OMLA 31 was suspended in pure water at 20° C. and the solutionwas titrated with KOH (0.01 M) until a neutral solution was obtained (asverified with a pH indicator). The amount of KOH needed to neutralisethe solution at time zero was equivalent to approximately 100 mg LA. Atregular intervals, when the spontaneous production of LA had lowered thepH, more KOH was added to maintain the solution neutral. The results areshown in FIG. 3, and demonstrate that there is a rather constantproduction of LA equivalents from OMLA 31 over time, a few mg per hourduring neutral conditions. (All OMLA 31 is expected to be hydrolysedwhen approximately 230-240 mg LA has been accounted for.)

The results demonstrate that the degradation of OMLA to free LA is slow,but the initially acidic environment is produced due to carboxylic freegroups of OMLA.

Example 5

Comparison of In Vitro Release of Lactic Acid from Lactic Acid and OMLA30, Respectively, Through a Dialysis Membrane

The experiment demonstrates the difference between LA and OMLA inrespect of the ability to maintain constant acidic pH and proves thathydrolysis of OMLA to LA is slow. 200 mg of LA or OMLA was placed in adialysis bags. The bags were immersed in 50 ml of water (37° C.) andstirred in the same temperature for 48 hours. After 3, 6, 24 and 48hours the acceptor liquid was removed and replaced with fresh water. ThepH was measured at regular intervals. The liquid was titrated with 0.1or 0.01 M KOH to measure how much LA equivalents are released. Then anexcess of KOH was added and after 24 hours the solution was titratedwith 0.1 or 0.01 HCl. This was to evaluate how much of the polymer wasdissolved, but did not undergo hydrolysis. The results are presented inFIG. 4A. pH was measured outside of the dialysis bags each hour between1 to 10 and periodically up to 48 hours (FIG. 4B).

LA is released from the dialysis bag immediately, while 50% OMLA(portion with lower molecular weight and free LA) is released fast andOMLA is slowly released. The portion of OMLA which diffuses through thedialysis membrane but does not release LA can be measured after totalhydrolysis with KOH (middle line, FIG. 4A). If OMLA is placed in thedialysis bag, slow release of the acidic components allows formaintaining constant acidic pH for a long time despite of the frequentchange of water outside of the dialysis membrane. LA itself is not ableto maintain acidic pH constant since it is all present in the acceptormedia after short time and is removed while the acceptor fluid isexchanged. This proves that OMLA is suitable for maintaining constantacidic environment and this effect is not possible when LA is used.

Example 6

In Vitro Release of Lactic Acid from a Formulation Containing OMLA 16

Preparation of pessaries [g] OMLA 16 1.0 Gelatin 0.35 Water 0.3Glycerine 1.35

OMLA was mixed together with a part of the glycerine. The rest ofsubstances were mixed and heated until the gelatine dissolved and addedto the mixture of glycerine and OMLA. After homogenisation, the mixturewas poured into pessary forms and refrigerated.

The pessaries (2.5 g) were placed in the Ph. Eur. flow-through apparatusfor dissolution testing of suppositories and the release test wasperformed. The acceptor was water (37° C., the flow rate was 12.5 ml/h).After 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 h the liquid was collected and the content of LAand pH was measured. The release profile of LA as well as the pH of thewater is shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B. Despite of the fast disintegrationand dissolution of gelatin from the pessaries the release of acidcontinues for a long time. The release of acids results in low pH for along time, despite of the fact that all time a fresh water is flowingthrough the chamber—LA itself would have be completely removed for thistime.

Another experiment was conducted as described above with differentamounts of OMLA in the pessaries, from 33% (as in Example 4) via 16.5%to 3.3%. The results are shown in FIG. 6. The release of acids (% total)from pessaries does not depend on the OMLA-gelatin ratio, although dueto lowest content of OMLA in the pessary 0.1/3 g the reducion of pH isthe smallest. Thus OMLA content in the formulation is a factor whichenables pH regulation.

The gelatin-based pessary is an appropriate formulation which enablesprolonged release of LA and reduction of the environment pH in a mannerdepending on the OMLA-pessary base ratio.

Example 7

In Vitro Release of Lactic Acid from OMLA 20 in a Gel Formulation

Preparation of gel: [g] OMLA 20 1.0 Hydroxyethyl cellulose (Natrosol250) 0.25 Glycerol 1.5 Ethanol 95% v/v 2.0 Water ad 10.0

OMLA was dissolved in mixture of ethanol and glycerine. Hydroxyethylcellulose was suspended in water and added to the solution of OMLA whilestirring intensively. Then the mixture was heated to 50° C. andcontinuously stirred until the gel was formed.

1 g of the gel (10% OMLA) was placed in a dialysis magnetic chamber andstirred in 50 ml water at 37° C. After 1, 4, 8, 24 and 28 hours, 20 mlof the acceptor fluid was replaced by fresh water (37° C.). pH of thesamples was measured and 10 ml of the sample was titrated with 0.01 MKOH and from this the amount of the LA was calculated. The results areshown in FIG. 7.

The release of OMLA acids from the gel is prolonged and does not showthe initial “burst” like it was observed for OMLA substance (FIG. 3),what results from the slow release of OMLA from the gel matrix. As aconsequence the pH of the acceptor fluid is constant for a long time.

Example 8

In Vitro Release of Lactic Acid from OMLA 10 in a Disc Formulation

This experiment demonstrates whether OMLA can be incorporated into asolid non-degradable formulation which can release acidic components andmaintain reduced pH of the environment.

Preparation of the Disc:

0.5 g of OMLA 10 and 2.5 g of ethylcellulose were dissolved together inmethylene chloride. The mixture was placed in a Petri dish where thesolvent was allowed to evaporate and the disc was formed.

Release Test:

The disc was cut in two parts and both of them were placed in separateflasks filled with 50 ml of water (37° C.). The contents of the flaskswere stirred at 37° C. and after 1, 3, 6, 24, 48, 72 and 96 h the liquidwas removed and replaced with fresh water.

25 ml of the collected liquid was titrated with 0.01 M KOH. In order toevaluate the amount of the acidic components that was released but didnot hydrolyse, the excess of the base was added and after few hours themixture was titrated with 0.01 M HC1. FIG. 8A presents the results ofthe release test without (sample A) and with the step of additionalhydrolysis (sample B).

pH was measured in the rest of the liquid. FIG. 8B presents the changesin pH value with the progress of the experiment.

FIG. 8A demonstrates that the release of acidic components from theethylcellulose disc is slow and can be maintained for a long time(days). After 5 days only 15-20% of LA was released. This maintainsconstant acidic pH of the acceptor fluid, despite of partial exchangeinto fresh water. OMLA is also released, what is presented after totalhydrolysis to LA (sample B). After 4 days nearly 70% of OMLA stillresides in the disc. Changing composition of the matrix different ratesof the drug release from the disc can be achieved.

Example 9

Mass Analysis of Oligomers of LA Produced by Heating to 120° C. for 10,20, and 31 Hours, Respectively.

ESI mass analysis of oligomers of LA, produced simply by heating LA to120° C. at different times. The products were prepared by heating of LAto 120° C. for 10 (FIG. 9A), 20 (FIG. 9B), and 31 (FIG. 9C) hours.

The peaks correspond to: 145: cyclic dimer and H⁺, 257: trimer and Na⁺,329: tetramer and Na⁺, 401: pentamer and Na⁺, 473: hexamer and Na⁺, 545:heptamer and Na⁺, 617: octamer and Na⁺, 689: nonamer and Na⁺, 761:decamer and Na⁺, 833: undecamer and Na⁺, 905: dodecamer and Na⁺, 977:tridecamer and Na⁺, 1049: tetradecamer and Na⁺, 1121: pentadecamer andNa⁺, 1193: hexadecamer and Na⁺, 1265: heptadecamer and Na⁺, etc.

The “Gauss distribution” slowly shifts to higher molecular weights withtime of heating. Other parameters besides time, e.g. temperature, watercontent, pressure, catalyst etc. will influence the result. By mixingoligomeric products obtained in different ways it is possible to prepareoligomeric mixtures with any composition.

Example 10

Mucoadhesive Properties of OMLA Formulations

Chemical and preformulation experiments were carried out in order todetermine mucoadhesiveness of OMLA in gel or semisolid forms (see tablebelow). The mucoadhesiveness for the OMLA judged for fluid, gel, patch,and vagitoria. Muco(Bio)adhesiveness is given according to a 5 gradedVAS scale, where 0 denotes no mucoadhesive properties and 4 verypronounced mucoadhesive properties.

Mucoadhesive Properties of OMLA Formulations

Fluid Gel Patch Vagitoria Lactic acid, 85% purity 0 — — — OMLA (mainlytetramer to octamer) — 3 4 3 OMLA (mainly pentamer to decamer) — 4 4 4

Lactate containing 15% water is a liquid and present only in fluid form,while the OMLA product becomes more and more viscous when extending thelength of the molecule.

Example 11

Synthesis of Oligomers of Lactic Acid (OMLA)

Composition of Starting Material

L-Lactic acid was used as starting material. The composition of thestarting material in aqueous solution at 25° C. at equilibrium is asfollows:

TA HL1 HL2 HL3 HL4 HL5 FA W P 90 65.51 17.33 3.68 0.71 0.13 76.79 12.641.172 Property: Composition of Lactic Acids and its Oligomers inEquilibrium at 25° C. TA: Total Concentration Lactic Acid, % w/w HL1:Concentration Monomeric Lactic Acid, % w/w HL2: Concentration LactoylLactic Acid, % w/w, MW = 162 HL3: Concentration Lactoyllactoyl LacticAcid, % w/w, MW = 234 HL4: MW = 306 HL5: MW = 378 FA: Direct titratableacidity calculated as lactic acid W: Percentage Water, % w/w P: Degreeof Polymerization (=TA/FA) Note: Concentrations of the oligomers are notexpressed as lactic acid, but as relative to the component.

Two series of synthesis were performed. In the first series (001/1-5)the synthesis was performed by heating the above-mentioned startingmaterial containing 10% w/w of water at 120° C. for 18 h (001/1), 24 h(001/2), 31 h (001/3), 41 h (001/4) and 51 h (001/5). In the secondseries (002/1-5), the synthesis was performed by heating theabove-mentioned starting material containing 10% w/w of water at 140° C.for 18 h (002/1), 24 h (002/2), 31 h (002/3), 41 h (002/4) and 51 h(002/5). The heating is performed in open vessels allowing the watercontent to evaporate.

The compositions of the products obtained were evaluated by HPLCanalysis.

Oligomer Determination:

The lactic acid, lactide, meso-lactide and the lactic acid oligomers areseparated using liquid chromatography and quantified with UV detection.The actual separation of the oligomers is performed with a gradientsystem in which the concentration of the organic solvent is increasedduring the run. The UV response of the oligomers is measured at awavelength at which carbonyl-and ester-bonds are known to adsorb. Thequantification is done using an external standard method.

Free Acid Determination:

The free acid was determined using a solvotrode and a non-aqueoustitration. A mixture of methanol and dichloromethane was used todissolve the samples. The titration was done using potassium methanolateas a titrant.

Moreover, it was noted that both L-and D-lactide was present, i.e. thesynthesis does not seem to be stereoselective and, accordingly, it isenvisaged that both L-lactic acid oligomers, D-lactic acid oligomers aswell as mixtures therof including racemic mixtures are present.

Composition of Products

Sample code/name Description 1 Lac2008.001/1 2 Lac2008.001/2 3Lac2008.001/3 4 Lac2008.001/4 5 Lac2008.001/5 6 Lac2008.002/1 7Lac2008.002/2 8 Lac2008.002/3 9 Lac2008.002/4 10 Lac2008.002/5

TABLE 1 HPLC lactide and oligomers of lactic acid for samplesLac2008.001/1-5: component 1 2 3 4 5 meso-lactide [% (w/w)] <0.1 <0.1<0.1 <0.1 <0.1 D + L lactide [% (w/w)] 1.1 1.2 1.2 1.5 1.4 HL [% (w/w)]10.5 7.2 6.1 4.2 3.2 HL₂ [% (w/w)] 17.2 12.5 9.8 6.4 5.2 HL₃ [% (w/w)]19.6 15.3 12.3 9.0 7.5 HL₄ [% (w/w)] 16.0 13.9 12.2 9.9 8.3 HL₅ [%(w/w)] 12.0 11.8 11.0 9.5 8.5 HL₆ [% (w/w)] 8.6 9.8 9.5 8.9 8.2 HL₇ [%(w/w)] 6.3 8.5 8.4 8.7 8.4 HL₈ [% (w/w)] 4.2 6.0 6.6 7.2 7.1 HL₉ [%(w/w)] 2.8 5.0 5.8 6.4 6.7 HL₁₀ [% (w/w)] 1.9 3.4 4.5 5.7 6.2 HL₁₁ [%(w/w)] 1.1 2.6 3.6 4.6 5.3 HL₁₂ [% (w/w)] 0.8 1.9 2.9 4.0 4.7 HL₁₃ [%(w/w)] 0.5 1.3 2.1 3.2 4.0 HL₁₄ [% (w/w)] 0.2 1.0 1.7 2.7 3.4 HL₁₅ [%(w/w)] <0.1 0.5 1.0 1.9 2.8 HL₁₆ [% (w/w)] <0.1 0.5 0.8 1.8 2.5 HL₁₇ [%(w/w)] <0.1 <0.1 0.8 1.6 2.2 HL₁₈ [% (w/w)] <0.1 <0.1 0.6 1.5 1.9 SumHL_(1 t/m 18) [% (w/w)] 102.9 102.6 101.0 98.7 97.5

HL corresponds to the monomeric lactic acid, HL₂ to the dimmer, HL₃ tothe trimer etc.

TABLE 2 HPLC lactide and oligomers of lactic acid for samplesLac2008.002/1-5: component 1 2 3 4 5 meso-lactide [% (w/w)] <0.1 <0.1<0.1 <0.1 <0.1 D + L lactide [% (w/w)] 1.7 1.7 1.8 1.9 2.0 HL [% (w/w)]5.1 3.0 2.5 1.6 0.9 HL₂ [% (w/w)] 7.7 5.6 4.1 2.7 2.0 HL₃ [% (w/w)] 10.17.0 5.7 4.0 3.0 HL₄ [% (w/w)] 10.8 8.1 6.5 4.6 3.5 HL₅ [% (w/w)] 10.38.2 6.8 5.0 4.2 HL₆ [% (w/w)] 9.1 7.9 6.7 5.3 4.4 HL₇ [% (w/w)] 8.9 8.27.3 5.9 5.1 HL₈ [% (w/w)] 7.2 6.7 6.3 5.3 4.9 HL₈ [% (w/w)] 6.2 6.1 5.95.3 4.7 HL₁₀ [% (w/w)] 5.5 6.1 5.6 5.1 4.5 HL₁₁ [% (w/w)] 4.4 4.9 5.24.9 4.4 HL₁₂ [% (w/w)] 3.6 4.2 4.4 4.4 4.3 HL₁₃ [% (w/w)] 3.0 3.6 4.04.1 3.9 HL₁₄ [% (w/w)] 2.5 3.1 3.2 3.8 3.6 HL₁₅ [% (w/w)] 1.7 2.4 2.73.3 3.3 HL₁₆ [% (w/w)] 1.4 2.2 2.5 3.4 3.1 HL₁₇ [% (w/w)] 1.2 1.9 2.42.3 2.8 HL₁₈ [% (w/w)] 0.9 1.5 2.0 2.5 2.5 Sum HL_(1 t/m 18) [% (w/w)]101.2 92.2 85.6 75.4 67.3

The overall mass-balance of the last samples is incomplete because thereare higher oligomers of lactic acid present in the samples. These arenot included in Sum HL_(1 t/m 18).

The above-mentioned results were used to calculate M_(n) and M_(w) andthe polydispersity index. The following results were obtained.

TABLE 3 Number and weight average molecular weights and polydispersityindex for samples 1-10 Sample 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Mn 323 396 472 573629 571 721 839 1031 1138 Mw 426 530 661 791 848 726 992 1198 1547 1682Polydispersity 1.32 1.34 1.40 1.38 1.35 1.27 1.38 1.43 1.50 1.48 index n4-6 5-8 6-9 7-11 8-12 7-10 9-14 11-17 14-22 15-24

The number n indicates average degree of oligomerisation (i.e. n=4relates to the tetramer, 5 to the pentamer, 6 to the hexamer etc.).

As seem from the table above, an increase in reaction time as well as anincrease in reaction temperature leads to an increase in the averagemolecular weight. Moreover, the polydispersity index tends to increasewith reaction time for the series synthesized with a reactiontemperature is 140° C. Moreover, it seems as if the polydispersity indexis relatively independent on the reaction time, when a reactiontemperature of 120° C. is employed.

Example 12

Stability of OMLA 30 Stability in Water

OMLA 30 was prepared by heating L-lactic acid at 120° C. for 30 hours.

The employment of oligomers of lactic acid as depot forms of lactic acidis dependent on their ability to hydrolyse into lactic acid (or smalleroligomers) in order to maintain or an acid pH (or decrease pH) in theenvironment.

Three samples of OMLA 30 (1.0 g each) were placed in separate vials. Oneof them was mixed with 0.1 g of water (sample B), another one with 0.5 gof water (sample C) and one was water-free (sample A). All vials werestored for 1 week at 60° C. Within this time the samples containingwater (B and C) underwent dissolution and less viscous solutiondeveloped. As a control sample A was also stored at 4° C. (a control).

After 7 days the samples from each vial were titrated with 0.1 M KOH.The volume of the used KOH is given in the Table (volume P).

Than an excess of KOH was added to each flask and after two days ofstirring the samples were considered as totally hydrolysed. The accessof KOH was titrated with 0.1 M HCl. From this titration the amount ofKOH reacting with LA produced form the totally hydrolysed sample wascalculated. The volume of KOH reacting with LA from totally hydrolysedOMLA was considered as 100% (volume T).

F=(volume P×100%)/volume T

only when F is 100% all titrated carboxylic groups are from LA,otherwise free carboxylic groups of OMLA contribute to the F value.

Mass of F sample Volume % of free F Storage titrated of KOH carboxylicaverage Sample (7 days) [mg] [ml] groups (%) Appearance A 60° C. 2364.85 14.83 13.0 Semisolid without 191 3.1 11.23 Semisolid water B 60° C.283 18.3 50.8 50.0 Dissolved 10% 198 12.4 49.2 Dissolved water C 60° C.395 30.8 85.3 85.7 Dissolved 33% of 374 29.35 86.07 Dissolved water A 4° C. 253 2.85 8.52 8.2 Semisolid without 224 2.4 7.97 semisolid water

From the results given above, it is seem that the oligomeric product isrelatively stable if water is not present and the rate of hydrolysisincreases with increase of the water concentration. Accordingly, it isexpected that suitably stable pharmaceutical compositions containing theoligomeric products can be obtained and that such compositions afterapplication e.g. to vagina releases lactic acid in a prolonged manner,which in turn can lead to a prolonged effect, i.e. a prolongedmaintenance of an acid pH value in the vagina.

Example 13

Pharmaceutical Compositions Containing OMLA—Lyophilized Tablets

A tablet-like formulation was prepared by subjecting a gel tolyophilization in a blister package as described in the following.

The lyophilized tablets were used in a pilot in vivo study (see Example17)

Gel Subjected to Lyophilization [g]:

OMLA 30 20 lactose 10 Pharmacoat* 6 cP 20 water 50 *hypromellose USP(Shin-Etsu Chemical)

Preparation:

Lactose was dissolved in water and hypromellose was added gradually withan intensive stirring. When the polymer dissolved, to the resulting gelOMLA was added and the gel was mixed thoroughly.

The OMLA containing gel was dispensed to the blister wells (2 g perwell) and freeze dried. The following “tablets” were obtained:

Lyophilized Tablet (A) [mg]:

OMLA 30 400 lactose 200 hypromellose 400

Freeze Drying:

The following operating conditions were applied during the process:

Pressure:  0-2 h - atmospheric 2-48 h - 1 mbar

Temperature:

Time (h) ° C. 0-2 −40  2-17 −25 17-27 −10 27-42 0 42-44 10 44-46 2046-48 20

Variations

Quality Quantity I. Gel composition OMLA 30 -- 20.0 (%) OMLA 10-30, OMLALac2008.003; 2-30% 007; 007; (+LA) Lactose -- 10% other sugars and sugaralcohols 0-50% Pharmacoat 6 cP - 20% other types of hypromellose, 0-40%hydroxyethylcellulose, sodium carmellose, methylcellulose, othergellifying and mucoadhesive agents # Water - 50% with dissolved acids or15-90%  antimicrobial agents II. Lyophilized tablet Cylinder any shapesuitable for vaginal Size: diameter-1 cm application height - 1 cm OMLA30 - 400 mg/tabl as for the gel 50-1000 mg Lactose - 200 mg - ″ -Hypromellose - ″ - III. Gel preparation Lactose was dissolved in Lactosecan be added to the ready water and hypromellose was hypromellose gel.added gradually with an intensive stirring. When the polymer Thedispersion of OMLA in the gel dissolved, to the resulting may beperformed at higher gel OMLA was added and temperature (up to 80° C.).the gel was mixed thoroughly. The OMLA containing gel Lyophilization maybe performed in was dispensed to the other unit dose forms or on trays.In blister wells (2 g per the latter case the discs (cylinders) well)and freeze dried. are cut out from the lyophilized sheet. IV.Lyophilization Time - 48 h 24-60 h Temperature Freezing may be performedat lower (−40° C. to 30° C.) temperature (e.g. −20° C.). The highesttemp.: 10-50° C. Pressure Up to 20 mbar Time-temperature different planmay be suitable # as already listed herein

Example 14

In Vitro Release of Lactic Acid from Lyophilized Tablets

The lyophilized tablets, A, described in Example 13 and containing OMLA30 were tested with respect to release of lactic acid. The experimentwas performed by placing ½ tablet in a dialysis bag (37° C.) asdescribed in Example 2 herein. The following results were obtained.

Release of acids from OMLA 30 lyophilized tablet (dialysis bag method -50 ml of the fluid) 14.03.2008. pH measurements pH lyophilized tablet1.5 3.0 4.5 6.0 7.5 9.0 22.5 24.0 46.5 48.0 20% Pharmacoat 6 cP 3.032.92 3.23 3.15 3.52 3.30 3.16 3.11 3.35 3.27

titration with KOH (acids calculated as lactic acid - % total) acidsreleased (%) 20% Pharmacoat 6 cP 3 6 9 24 48 time (H) 20% Pharmacoat 6cP 29.99 44.31 52.87 85.49 98.90

The results are shown in FIG. 10. The results show that it is possibleto maintain a low pH for a time period of at least 48 hours. The pHmeasurements and the determination of acid released (i.e. usingtitration with KOH) are in agreement.

Example 15

In Vitro Release of Lactic Acid from Lyophilized Tablets ContainingDifferent Types of Mucoadhesive Polymers

In the following table are described the composition of lyophilizedtablets (and the gels subjected to lyophilization). The tablets containa mucoadhesive polymers, which improve the adherence of the tablets tothe mucosa (e.g. the vaginal mucosa) upon administration

A* (in vivo) B C D Gel for lyophilization (g) OMLA 30 20 20 20 20lactose 10 10 10 10 mucoadhesive polymer: type HPMC (a) HPMC + MC (b)HPMC + MC (c) HEC (d) amount 20 10 5 15 water to 100 to 100 to 100 to100 Lyophilized tablet (mg) OMLA 30 400 400 400 400 lactose 200 200 200200 mucoadhesive polymer 400 200 100 300 total mass(mg) 1000 800 700 900*the preparation used in vivo; the results presented in details above(see example 14) HPMC (a) hypromellose - Pharmacoat 606 - 6 cP(Shin-Etsu Chemical) HPMC + MC (b) hypromellose and methylcellulose -Metolose 60SH - 50 cP (Shin-Etsu Chemical) HPMC + MC (c) hypromelloseand methylcellulose - Metolose 65SH - 4000 cP (Shin-Etsu Chemical) HEC(d) hydroxyethylcellulose - Natrosol L - 76 cP (Aqualon)

Release of acids from the lyophilizates was studied as described abovein Example 14 for Pharmacoat 606 lyophilized tablet.

pH meaurements pH Formulation 1.5 3.0 4.5 6.0 7.5 9.0 22.5 24.0 46.548.0 time h A (in vivo) 3.03 2.92 3.23 3.15 3.52 3.30 3.16 3.11 3.353.27 B 3.12 2.96 3.23 3.06 3.27 3.19 2.99 3.05 3.12 3.14 C 2.91 2.783.15 3.09 3.49 3.28 3.09 3.11 3.32 3.30 D 3.01 2.95 3.05 2.96 3.34 3.293.29 3.33 3.48 3.41 The results from compositions A-D are shown fromleft to right in each block

titration with KOH (acids calculated as lactic acid - % total) acidsreleased (%) Formulation 3 6 9 24 48 - time h A (in vivo) 29.99 44.3152.87 85.49 98.90 B 22.85 42.12 52.19 89.01 104.38 C 35.16 48.68 57.8674.06 86.16 D 29.13 57.07 78.64 93.40 104.44

The results are shown in FIG. 11. The results show that all compositionstested are able to maintain a pH decrease for at least 48 hours. Therelease of lactic acid from the compositions vary. Composition D seemsto release lactic acid faster than the other compositions, but still ina prolonged fashion enabling a pH decrease for at least 48 hours.Accordingly, the choice of mucoadhesive polymer may have some impact onthe release rate of lactic acid from the oligomers.

Example 16

Pharmaceutical Compositions Containing OMLA—Pessaries

Pessaries were prepared and used in a pilot in vivo study (see example17) Moulded pessary [mg]:

OMLA 30  500 Macrogol 6000 2000 (prod. Hoechst)

Macrogol 6000 (polyoxyethylene glycol m.w. 6000 Da) was melted at 50° C.and OMLA was admixed. The warm mass was transferred to the unit doseforms and left for cooling.

Variations

Quality Quantity I. Composition OMLA 30 -- OMLA 10-30, OMLA   2-50% 20.0(%) Lac2008.003; 007; 007; (+LA) Macrogol other solid macrogols or50%-98% 6000 -- 80% their mixture with semisolid or liquid macrogols II.Size Torpedo like any shape suitable for up to 5 g Mass - 2.5 g vaginalapplication III. Preparation Macrogol 6000 was Temperature 40-100° C.may be melted at 50° C. applied and OMLA was admixed. The warm mass wasThe cooling may be fast. transferred to the unit dose forms and left forcooling

Example 17

Pilot In Vivo Studies

Study performed in order to investigate different formulations of OMLAin comparison with two marketed drugs (Vivag and Lactal gel).

A prototype of a pessary (vagitorium, 500 mg) and a lyophylised vaginaltablet (400 mg) was used in a single dose self testing in-vivoexperiment by a healthy female volunteer (age 56). The vaginal pH wasmonitored during 36 to 96 h. The results as can be seen in FIGS.12A-12D, visualising the results from the use of the pessary composition(A), vaginal tablet (B), Lactal® gel (C, 225 mg LA) and Vivag® (D)) theOMLA formulations shows as much more prolonged effect of keeping a lowpH in the vaginal tract compared to Lactal gel or Vivag whichtemporarily lowers the pH but does not otherwise display a persistenceto keeping the pH at low levels. With the OMLA vaginal tablet the low pHlevels could be detected up to 72 h with no subjective discomfortreported. With the OMLA pessary an even more prolonged effect could beseen with only minor discomfort reported. Thus the pH-lowering effectpersisted up to 60-80 h confirming the expected mucoadhesive propertiesas well as good subjective tolerability. The individual formulationswere monitored as can be seen in the tables below;

Lactal ® A OMLA30 B OMLA30 gel (225 Pessary vaginal tablet mg LA)Vivag ® t (h) pH t (h) pH t (h) pH t (h) pH 0 4.4 0 4.4 0 4.4 0 4.4 43.6 4 4.1 4 3.6 4 4.7 8 3.6 8 3.6 8 4.1 8 4.4 12 4.1 12 3.6 12 4.4 124.4 24 4.1 24 3.6 24 4.4 24 4.1 28 4.1 28 3.6 28 4.4 32 4.1 32 3.6 364.1 36 3.6 48 4.1 48 4.1 52 4.1 52 4.1 56 4.1 56 4.1 60 4.1 60 4.1 724.1 72 4.4 76 4.1 76 4.4 80 4.25 80 4.4 84 4.4 84 4.4 96 4.4 96 4.4

In A: Discomfort: Day 1; Mild Burning and Discharge. Day 2; MildDischarge. Day 3-5;

No subjective discomfort.

Tolerability: Mild discomfort

Acceptability: Good but not optimal

In B: Discomfort: Day 1-5; No Subjective Discomfort.

Tolerability: Very good.

Acceptability: Very good.

In C: Discomfort: Day 1; Mild Burning and Discharge. Day 2; NoDiscomfort.

Tolerability: Good.

Acceptability: Good.

In D: Discomfort: Day 1; No Discomfort.

Tolerability: Good.

Acceptability: Good.

Example 18

Clinical Study Protocol

A clinical development programme is initiated to demonstrate the utilityof OMLA in BV and related diseases. In an initial study, a group ofhealthy postmenopausal consenting female subjects will be studied. Aprimary objective will be to evaluate tolerability and subjectacceptability of different galenic formulations of lactate oligomerformulations in comparison with marketed products such as Vivag andLactal gel. An additional objective is to investigate the safety aspectof the galenic lactate oligomer formulations.

Overall Study Design. The study will be conducted as a single-centre,trial in healthy peri-and/or postmenopausal women. At pre-entry, thesubjects will undergo a gynaecological and clinical examinationincluding medical history, vital signs and urianalysis within 10 daysbefore the first study day. During the study period, the subjects willassess tolerability and acceptability score as well as conductassessment of vaginal pH. Study lactate preparations will be dispensedat visit 1. Study parameters are; tolerability, acceptability and pHself-measurements. The different OMLA and control preparationadministrations ill be separated by at least 1 week. A safety follow-up,including physical examination and urinanalysis will be performed 2-10days after the last lactate vaginal application.

Description of Study Medication. The study preparations will be suppliedin a vaginal pessary or tablet (with lactic acid) form of 400-600 mg oflactate equivalents. The formulations will contain excipients which arecommonly used (PhEur) in vaginal preparations: hydroxyethylcellulose,macrogol. All subjects will receive 1-5 preparations over time (maximum5 weeks) separated by at least 7 days. The study medication will beprovided to the investigational site with batch/packaging numbers,certificate of analysis and expiry/retest dates.

Active compound: Lactate oligomer

Dosage form: Pessary or tablet

Strength: 400 mg and 600 mg (lactate equivalents)

Manufacturer: Pharmaceutical Faculty, University of Gdansk, Poland

Analysis: Microbial test and quality control tests according to Ph. Eur.(category 2)

Dosage regimens of study drugs

Each subject will over time, separated by at least 7 days receive amaximum of 5 different single galenic formulations of the studypreparation (lactate equivalents 400-600 mg). Marketed products such asVivag and Lactal gel will serve as controls.

Duration of treatment. The duration of the study will be 4-8 weeksincluding pre-entry, study periods and follow-up.

Randomisation procedure. The subjects will be assigned treatment in anopen design.

No blinding will be made

Assessment of data. The subjects will assess tolerability andacceptability score as well as conduct self-assessment of pH.

A full clinical development programme will be performed according toregulatory requirements.

Specific Embodiments

1. Use of one or more oligomers of lactic acid for the preparation of aformulation for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of gynaecologicalinfections.

2. Use according to item 1, wherein the infection is a bacterialinfection, such as bacterial vaginosis, unspecific colpitis, senilecolpitis, cervicitis, and urethritis.

3. Use according to item 1, wherein the infection is a fungal infection,such as candidosis (candida albicans), cryptococcosis, actinomycosis.

4. Use according to item 1, wherein the infection is a viral infection,such as Human Immunodefiency Virus (HIV), Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV),Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).

5. Use according to item 1, wherein the one or more oligomers of lacticacid has the following formula II

wherein n is an integer from 1 to 20 such as, e.g., from 2 to 20, from 3to 20, from 1 to 15, from 2 to 15, from 3 to 15, from 1 to 10, from 2 to10, from 3 to 10, or from 4 to 9, wherein R is R¹R²N—, R¹O—, or R¹S—,

R¹, R² and R³ are the same or different and selected from H, C₁-C₆ alkylincluding methyl, ethyl, propyl, isopropyl, butyl, isobutyl, tert.butyl, pentyl, hexyl, or aryl including benzyl,

and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof.

6. Use according to any one of the preceding items, wherein one or moreoligomers of lactic acid have an inherent viscosity at 25° C. in therange of 10⁻³ to 10¹² Pa·s, such as 10⁻¹ to 10⁹ Pa·s, 1 to 10⁵ Pa·s,when determined by a rheometer.

7. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein the one or moreoligomers of lactic acid release lactic acid over a time period of atleast 8 hours, at least 12 hours, such as at least 16 hours, at least 20hours, at least 24 hours, at least 36 hours, at least 2 days, at least 3days, at least 4 days, at least 5 days, at least 6 days, or at least 7days when exposed to water at room temperature.

8. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least 25% w/wsuch as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, at least60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w of theone or more oligomers of lactic acid is a trimer of lactic acid (n=2).

9. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least 25% w/wsuch as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, at least60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w of theone or more oligomers of lactic acid is a tetramer of lactic acid (n=3).

10. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least 25%w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, atleast 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w ofthe one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a pentamer of lactic acid(n=4).

11. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least 25%w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, atleast 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w ofthe one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a hexamer of lactic acid(n=5).

12. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least 25%w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, atleast 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w ofthe one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a heptamer of lactic acid(n=6).

13. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least 25%w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, atleast 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w ofthe one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a octamer of lactic acid(n=7).

14. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least 25%w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, atleast 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w ofthe one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a nonamer of lactic acid(n=8).

15. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein at least 25%w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50% w/w, atleast 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least 90% w/w ofthe one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a decamer of lactic acid(n=9).

16. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein the formulationcomprises at least 0.01% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lacticacid.

17. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein the formulationcomprises from about 0.02% to 100% w/w such as, e.g. from about 0.1% toabout 95% w/w, from about 1% to about 95% w/w, from about 5% to about95% w/w, from about 10% to about 90% w/w, from about 15% to about 90%w/w of the one or more oligomers of lactic acid.

18. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein the formulationis designed for vaginal administration.

19. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein the formulationis a solid, semi-solid or liquid formulation.

20. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein the galenicformulation is in the form of a tampon, vagitorium, vaginal aerosol,vaginal cup, vaginal gel, vaginal insert, vaginal patch, vaginal ring,vaginal sponge, vaginal suppository, vaginal cream, vaginal emulsion,vaginal foam, vaginal lotion, vaginal ointment, vaginal powder, vaginalshampoo, vaginal solution, vaginal spray, vaginal suspension, vaginaltablet, vaginal rod, vaginal shaum, vaginal disc, semipermeablepackaging and any combination thereof.

21. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein the formulationfurther comprises one or more pharmaceutically acceptable excipients.

22. Use according to item 21, wherein the one or more pharmaceuticallyacceptable excipients are selected from the group consisting ofcellulose derivatives such as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC),methyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl cellulose(HPC), ethyl hydroxyethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose and sodiumcarboxymethyl cellulose (Na CMC), starch derivatives such as moderatelycross-linked starch, acrylic polymers such as carbomer and itsderivatives (Polycarbophyl, Carbopol®, etc); polyethylene oxide (PEO),chitosan (poly-(D-glucosamine); natural polymers such as gelatin, sodiumalginate, pectin, scleroglucan, tragacanth, gellan, xanthan gum or guargum, poly co-(methylvinyl ether/maleic anhydride), microcrystallinecellulose/Avicel®), and crosscarmellose.

23. Use according to item 22, wherein the concentration of one or morepharmaceutically acceptable excipients are in the range 0.05 to 10weight percent, such as 0.1 to 5 weight percent, of the formulation.

24. Use according to item 22 or 23, wherein the one or morepharmaceutically acceptable excipients are vaginal mucoadhesivepromoting agents and/or viscosity-adjusting agents.

25. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein the formulationfurther comprises one or more antiadhesion agents.

26. Use according to item 25, wherein the amount of antiadhesion agentis in the range 0.01 to 10 weight percent, such as 0.1 to 5 weightpercent, of the formulation.

27. Use according to any of the preceding items, wherein the formulationcomprises one or more further antimicrobial agents.

28. Use according to item 27, wherein the antimicrobial agent isselected from the group consisting of antibiotics, such as clindamycinor metronidazol, essential oils, such as tea tree oil, cations orelements, such as Hg, Cu, Pb, or Ag, polyene antimycotic, imidazole,triazole, allyamines, echinocandin, aciclovir, amantadine, alcohols,quartenary ammmonium compounds, boric acid, chlorhexidine gluconate,hydrogen peroxide, urea hydrogen peroxide, iodine, mercurochrome,octenine dihydrochloride, phenolic(carbolic acid) compounds, sodiumchloride, sodium hypochlorite, nonoxynol, and any combination thereof.

29. An oligomer of lactic acid with the following formula I

wherein n is an integer from 2 to 20 such as, e.g., from 3 to 20, from 2to 15, from 3 to 15, from 2 to 10, from 3 to 10, from 4 to 10, or from 4to 9.

30. An oligomer according to item 29, with the proviso that the oligomeris not a tetramer of lactic acid manufactured as described in thefollowing: To a solution of lactic acid tetramer tert-butyl ester(0.6982 g) (1.9268 mmol) in methylene chloride (25 ml) was dropped amixed solution of trifluoroacetic acid (2.5 ml) and methylene chloride(2.5 ml), followed by stirring at room temperature for 1 hour after theend of dropping; a saturated sodium hydrogen carbonate solution (30 ml)was added to adjust the pH of water layer to pH 8, and then a saturatedammonium chloride (50 ml) was added thereto to adjust the pH of waterlayer to pH 6; the resultant was extracted three times with diethylether (100 ml); the extraction solution contained almost all impuritiesand a small amount of the substance of interest; to the remaining waterlayer was dropped 1N hydrochloric acid (5 ml) cooled at 0° C., so as toadjust the pH of water layer to pH 2-3; the layer was extracted threetimes with methylene chloride (150 ml); at this time, the pH changed,and therefore 1N hydrochloric acid cooled at 0° C. was used to keep thepH of the water layer at pH 2-3; the resultant was dried over anhydrousmagnesium sulphate day and night, concentrated, and isolated by columnchromatography (developing solvent: hexane:diethyl ether=1:4) to obtainlactic acid tetramer (0.2047 g) (yield:34.7%) as a colourless oil.

31. An oligomer of lactic acid according to item 29 or 30, wherein atleast 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50%w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a trimer oflactic acid (n=2).

32. An oligomer of lactic acid according to item 29 or 30, wherein atleast 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50%w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a tetramer oflactic acid (n=3).

33. An oligomer of lactic acid according to item 29 or 30, wherein atleast 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50%w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a pentamer oflactic acid (n=4).

34. An oligomer of lactic acid according to item 29 or 30, wherein atleast 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50%w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a hexamer oflactic acid (n=5).

35. An oligomer of lactic acid according to item 29 or 30, wherein atleast 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50%w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a heptamer oflactic acid (n=6).

37. An oligomer of lactic acid according to item 29 or 30, wherein atleast 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50%w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a octamer oflactic acid (n=7).

38. An oligomer of lactic acid according to item 29 or 30, wherein atleast 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50%w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a nonamer oflactic acid (n=8).

39. An oligomer of lactic acid according to item 29 or 30, wherein atleast 25% w/w such as, at least 30% w/w, at least 40% w/w, at least 50%w/w, at least 60% w/w, at least 70% w/w, at least 80% w/w or at least90% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lactic acid is a decamer oflactic acid (n=9).

40. A formulation comprising one or more oligomers of lactic acid asdefined in any of items 1-39 and one or more pharmaceutically acceptableexcipients.

41. A formulation according to item 40, wherein the formulationcomprises i) one or more oligomers of lactic acid or derivative thereofas defined in any of items 1-40, ii) a combination of one or moreoligomers of lactic acid or derivative thereof as defined in any ofitems 1-40, or iii) a combination of i) and/or ii) and/or lactic acidfor the prophylaxis and/or treatment of a microbial infection accordingto any of items 1-4.

41. A formulation according to item 39 or 40, wherein for theformulation is for intravaginal or transvaginal administration.

42. A formulation according to any of items 39-41, which furthercomprises an antibacterial agent selected from the group consisting ofclindamycin, tetracycline, amoxicillin, ampicillin, erythromycin,doxycycline, lumefloxacin, norfloxacin, afloxam, ciproflaxin,azitromycin, cefltoxine.

43. A formulation according to any of the items 39-42, wherein theformulation further comprises a formulation of one or more antibacterialagents for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of gynaecological infectionsas defined in items 1-4.

44. A formulation according to item 45, wherein the antibacterial agentis selected from the group consisting of clindamycin, tetracycline,amoxicillin, ampicillin, erythromycin, doxycycline, lumefloxacin,norfloxacin, afloxam, ciproflaxin, azitromycin, cefltoxine.

45. A formulation according to item 43 or 44, wherein the amount ofantibacterial agent is in the range from 5 mg to 1000 mg per dose.

46. A formulation according to any of the items 43-45, wherein theantibacterial agent selected from the group consisting of tetracycline,doxycycline, azithromycin, or erythromycin is incorporated into atampon.

47. A formulation according to any of the items 39-46, wherein theformulation further comprises one or more broad spectrum antibioticagent.

48. A formulation according to item 47, wherein the broad spectrumantibiotic agent is selected from the group consisting of clindamycin,tetracycline, amoxicillin, ampicillin, erythromycin, doxycycline,lumefloxacin, norfloxacin, afloxam, ciproflaxin, azithromycin,cefltoxine for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of gonorrhea orchlamydial infections.

49. A formulation according to item 48, wherein the amount of broadspectrum antibiotic agent is in the range from 100 mg to 3000 mg perdose.

50. A formulation according to any of the items 47-49, wherein the broadspectrum antibiotic agent is selected from the group consisting oftetracycline, amoxicillin, ampicillin, lumefloxacin, norfloxacin,afloxam, ciproflaxin, azithromycin or cefitoxine for prophylaxis and/ortreatment of gonorrhea.

51. A formulation according to item 50, wherein the amount of broadspectrum antibiotic agent is in the range from 400 mg to 3000 mg perdose.

52. A formulation according to item 50 or 51, wherein the formulation isin the form of a tampon.

53. A formulation according to any of items 47-52, wherein theformulation further one or more broad spectrum antibiotic agentsselected from the group consisting of tetracycline, doxycycline, anderythromycin for treatment of chlamydial infections.

54. A formulation according to item 53, wherein the amount of broadspectrum antibiotic agent is in the range from 100 mg to 2000 mg perdose.

55. A formulation according to item 53 or 54, wherein the formulation isin the form of a tampon.

56. A formulation according to any of items 39-55, which furthercomprises an antichlamydial agent selected from the group consisting oftetracycline, doxycycline, and erythromycin.

57. A formulation according to any of items 39-56, which furthercomprises an antifungal agent selected from the group consisting ofmiconazole, terconazole, isoconazole, fenticonazole, fluconazole,nystatin, ketoconazole, clotrimazole, butoconazole, econazole,tioconazole, itraconazole, 5-fluoracil, and metronidazole.

58. A formulation according to item 57, wherein the amount of antifungalagent per dose is in the range from 0.1 mg to 2000 mg for treatment ofcandidiasis.

59. A formulation according to item 57 or 58, wherein one or moreantifungal agents selected from the group consisting of ketoconazole,miconazole and metronidazole and optionally, the agent is incorporatedinto a tampon.

60. A formulation according to any of items 39-59, which furthercomprises an antiviral agent selected from the group consisting ofacyclovir, femciclovir, valacyclovir, and AZT.

61. A formulation according to any of the items 39-60, wherein theformulation further comprises an antiviral agent.

62. A formulation according to item 61, wherein the antiviral agent isselected from the group consisting of acyclovir, femciclovir,valacyclovir, and AZT.

63. A formulation according to item 61 or 62, wherein the amount ofantiviral agent is in the range from 100 mg to 1200 mg per dose.

64. A formulation according to any of the items 61-63, wherein theantiviral agent is acyclovir and is incorporated into a tampon.

65. A formulation according to any of items 39-64, which furthercomprises an trichomonicidal or parasiticidal agent selected from thegroup consisting of metronidazole and clotrimazol.

66. A formulation according to any of the items 39-65, wherein theformulation further comprises metronidazole for treatment oftrichomoniasis.

67. A formulation according to item 66, wherein the amount ofmetronidazole is in the range from 10 mg to 750 mg per dose.

68. A formulation according to any of items 39-67, wherein thepharmaceutically acceptable excipient is a lipophilic or hydrophiliccarrier.

69. A formulation according to item 39-68 for intravaginal delivery,which comprises one or more lipophilic or hydrophilic carriers and oneor more mucoadhesive agents in total concentrations in the range from 60to 90% w/w and from 5 to 25% w/w, respectively.

70. A formulation according to item 39-69 for transvaginal delivery,which comprises one or more lipophilic or hydrophilic carriers, one ormore mucoadhesive agents, and one or more penetration enhancers orsorption promoters in total concentrations in the range from 60 to 90%w/w, from 5 to 25% w/w, and from 5 to 20% w/w, respectively.

71. A formulation according to any of the items 39-70, wherein theformulation further comprises one or more lipophilic carriers ofsemi-synthetic glycerides of saturated fatty acids of 8-18 carbon atoms.

72. A formulation according to any of the items 39-71, wherein theformulation further comprises the hydrophilic carrier polyethyleneglycol of a molecular weight from 400 to 6000.

73. A formulation according to any of the items 39-72, wherein theconcentration of polyethylene glycol is in the range from 60 to 90% w/w.

74. A formulation according to any of the items 39-73, wherein theformulation further comprises the mucoadhesive agents alginate, pectin,or hydroxypropyl methylcellulose.

75. A formulation according to any of the items 39-74, wherein theconcentration of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose is in the range from 5 to20% w/w.

76. A formulation according to any of the items 39-75, wherein thepenetration enhancer is a surfactant, bile salt, or ethoxyglycol.

77. A formulation according to item 76, wherein the concentration ofethoxyglycol is in the range from 5 to 30% w/w.

78. A formulation according to any of the items 39-77, wherein thepharmaceutical agent is incorporated into the device as a controlledrelease drug delivery system.

79. A device for the delivery of a formulation as defined in any ofitems 39-78 for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of a gynaecologicalinfection as defined in any of items 1-4.

80. A device according to item 79, wherein the device is intravaginal.

81. A device according to item 79 or 80, wherein the formulation isadministered intravaginally or transvaginally.

82. A device according to any of the items 79-81, wherein thepharmaceutical agent is incorporated into the device as a controlledrelease drug delivery system.

83. A kit for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of gynaecologicalinfections as defined in any of the items 1-4, which comprises at leasta first and a second component, wherein the first component comprises aformulation as defined in any of items 39-78 and the second componentcomprises instructions for use of the formulation.

84. A kit according to item 83, wherein the first component comprises aformulation as defined in any of items 39-78 and the second componentcomprises means for administration of the formulation.

85. A kit according to item 84, wherein a further third componentcomprises instructions for use of the formulation.

86. Kit according to item 84 or 85, wherein the formulation is in theform of a vaginal device and the means for administration is anapplicator.

87. A package or container for storage of a kit as defined in any of theitems 83-86.

88. A method for the prophylaxis and/or treatment of a gynaecologicalinfection, the method comprising administering to a subject in needthereof an effective dose of one or more oligomers of lactic acid asdefined in any of items 29-38, optionally in form of a formulation asdefined in any of items 39-78.

89. A method for the management, prophylaxis and/or treatment of odourfrom vaginal discharge, the method comprising administering to a subjectin need thereof an effective dose of one or more oligomers of lacticacid ad defined in any of items 29-38, optionally in form of aformulation as defined in any of items 39-78.

90. A method according to item 89, wherein the formulation is a sanitarydevice.

1-16. (canceled)
 17. A method for treating a subject suffering from orsusceptible to a disease or condition being selected from gynaecologicalinfections, oral mucosal lesions, rectal diseases or disorders selectedfrom haemorroids, anal fissures, pruritus ani or proctitis,dermatological diseases or conditions selected from wounds, exema,atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne, rosacea, urticaria, pruritus, lightdermatosis, hyperhidrosis, alopecia, bacterial, viral, fungal infectionsor ectoparasites, dental diseases or conditions such as caries,parodontitis or halitosis, the method comprising: administering to thesubject one or more oligomers of lactic acid.
 18. The method of claim 17wherein the administering establishes a low pH in the diseasedenvironment, the
 20. The method of claim 17 wherein the one or moreoligomers of lactic acid are administered to to the skin or mucosa ofthe subject.
 21. The method of claim 17 wherein the subject is sufferingfrom a gynaecological infection.
 22. The method of claim 17 wherein thesubject is suffering from a bacterial infection a fungal infection or aviral infection.
 23. The method of claim 17 wherein the subject issuffering from bacterial vaginosis, unspecific colpitis, senilecolpitis, cervicitis, urethritis, candidosis (candida albicans),cryptococcosis, actinomycosis, Human Immunodefiency Virus (HIV), HerpesSimplex Virus (HSV), or Human Papilloma Virus (HPV).
 24. The method ofclaim 17 wherein the one or more oligomers of lactic acid has thefollowing formula I

wherein n is an integer from 2 to
 25. 25. The method of claim 17 whereinthe one or more oligomers of lactic acid is present in an oligomericproduct having an average weight molecular weight of from about 300 toabout 2,000.
 26. The method of claim 17 wherein the total concentrationof the oligomers HL₂, HL₃, HL₄ and HL₅ is at least about 30% w/w. 27.The method of claim 17 wherein one or more oligomers of lactic acid orthe oligomeric product have an inherent viscosity at 25° C. in the rangeof 10⁻³ to 10¹² Pa·s when determined by a rheometer.
 28. The method ofclaim 17 wherein the one or more oligomers of lactic acid or theoligomeric product release lactic acid over a time period of at least 8hours when exposed to water at room temperature.
 29. The method of claim17 wherein a pharmaceutical composition is administered to the subjectthat comprises at least 0.01% w/w of the one or more oligomers of lacticacid or the oligomeric product.
 30. The method of claim 17 wherein thethe one or more oligomers of lactic acid are administered vaginally. 31.The method of claim 17 wherein a pharmaceutical composition comprisingone or more oligomers of lactic acid or the oligomeric product isadministered and the pharmaceutical composition is a solid, semi-solidor liquid formulation.
 32. The method of claim 17 wherein apharmaceutical composition comprising one or more oligomers of lacticacid or the oligomeric product is administered and the pharmaceuticalcomposition is in the form of a tampon, vagitorium, vaginal aerosol,vaginal cup, vaginal gel, vaginal insert, vaginal patch, vaginal ring,vaginal sponge, vaginal suppository, vaginal cream, vaginal emulsion,vaginal foam, vaginal lotion, vaginal ointment, vaginal powder, vaginalshampoo, vaginal solution, vaginal spray, vaginal suspension, vaginaltablet, vaginal rod, vaginal shaum, vaginal disc, semipermeablepackaging or any combination thereof.
 33. The method of claim 17 whereina pharmaceutical composition comprising one or more oligomers of lacticacid or the oligomeric product is administered and the pharmaceuticalcomposition further comprises one or more pharmaceutically acceptableexcipients selected from the group consisting of cellulose derivativessuch as hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), methyl cellulose,hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), ethylhydroxyethyl cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose and sodium carboxymethylcellulose (Na CMC), starch derivatives such as moderately cross-linkedstarch, acrylic polymers such as carbomer and its derivatives(Polycarbophyl, Carbopol®, etc); polyethylene oxide (PEO), chitosan(poly-(D-glucosamine); natural polymers such as gelatin, sodiumalginate, pectin, scleroglucan, tragacanth, gellan, xanthan gum or guargum, poly co-(methylvinyl ether/maleic anhydride), microcrystallinecellulose/Avicel®), and crosscarmellose.
 34. The method of claim 33wherein the concentration of one or more pharmaceutically acceptableexcipients are in a range of from 0.01 to 99.9% w/w.
 35. Apharmaceutical composition comprising one or more oligomers of lacticacid or a lactic acid oligomeric product together with apharmaceutically acceptable excipient.
 36. A pharmaceutical compositionaccording to claim 35, wherein the pharmaceutically acceptable excipientis selected from the group consisting of cellulose derivatives such ashydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC), methyl cellulose, hydroxyethylcellulose (HEC), hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC), ethyl hydroxyethylcellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose(Na CMC), starch derivatives such as moderately cross-linked starch,acrylic polymers such as carbomer and its derivatives (Polycarbophyl,Carbopol®, etc); polyethylene oxide (PEO), chitosan(poly-(D-glucosamine); natural polymers such as gelatin, sodiumalginate, pectin, scleroglucan, tragacanth, gellan, xanthan gum or guargum, poly co-(methylvinyl ether/maleic anhydride), microcrystallinecellulose/Avicel®), and crosscarmellose.